# Countdown timer

The countdown timer gives you a short buffer before recording starts. Use it to switch tabs, close sensitive content, or set up the screen.

### Change the duration

<figure><img src="https://2926674537-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fbd2SnMxoNdTMcJ57yryh%2Fuploads%2FhbBKdgcogPfbk6MRag1g%2Fcountdown-timer.gif?alt=media&#x26;token=a8c741b6-91a5-4969-91ea-2f3e1846f3d1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Pick between a **3-second** or **5-second** countdown.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open Screendesk

Click the Screendesk icon in your browser toolbar.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Open settings

Click **Settings** (gear icon).
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Set the countdown

Find **Countdown Timer**. Pick **3 seconds** or **5 seconds**.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Your choice saves automatically. It applies to future recordings.

### How it works

<figure><img src="https://2926674537-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fbd2SnMxoNdTMcJ57yryh%2Fuploads%2FKdT1eAbBsV2z2WTPkbb4%2Fcountdown.gif?alt=media&#x26;token=b83ad3b9-419e-4e49-b95b-3e5356ec2ba3" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Start recording

Start a recording as usual.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Countdown overlay appears

A full-screen countdown shows on your screen.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Get ready

Close tabs, sensitive windows, or position UI elements.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Recording begins

Recording starts automatically when the countdown hits zero.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Pause or cancel during the countdown

Need more time?

* Click anywhere to pause the countdown.
* Click again to resume.
* Press <kbd>Esc</kbd> to cancel.