My personal issue is that social media sites like Twitter can be both a distraction as well as a viable work destination, so I still wrestle with whether to continue using BlockSite.

BlockSite for Edge uses the Pomodoro technique-work intensively for 25 minutes or so, then take a break-and actually blocks you from accessing distracting websites during that work period. During the pandemic I’d occasionally turn to BlockSite to prevent further distractions.

I’m a big believer in toggling on and off Microsoft Windows’ Focus Mode, a way in which you can limit the number of Windows pop-in notifications from email, Facebook, and the like. Editor, though, seems more relevant to my day-to-day communication.

Honorable Mention: Grammarly ( for Edge and Chrome) offers similar options, including a way to check the “tone” of your writing, and also feels slightly more organized. Microsoft Editor is available for Microsoft Edge as well as Google Chrome. There are more advanced features, including checks for inclusive language, formality, conciseness, and vocabulary, but they require that you be signed in to a Microsoft account with a Microsoft 365 subscription attached. The plugin supplies free grammar, spelling, and punctuation proofreading for up to three languages at the same time. While some of you may prefer writing in Microsoft Word and then copying the text into a webpage, Microsoft Editor is there to oversee your writing in Gmail,, and other sites. So much of our life is spent online, and most of it consists of sending electronic communication back and forth. (Skip to the end if you don’t know how to install a browser plugin or need help installing a Chrome plugin within Edge-yes, you can do that!) Microsoft Editor I’ve chosen five general-purpose browser extensions that you should definitely consider using, if you don’t already. There are literally thousands of browser extensions for you to choose from, via sites like the Chrome Web Store.

Microsoft edge extensions when