Formula used
How to use the Sleep Cycle Calculator
- Pick whether you start from a bedtime or a desired wake time.
- Type the time in 24-hour format (HH:MM).
- Adjust the sleep latency if you tend to fall asleep quickly or slowly.
- Read the recommended wake time and the alternative cycle ends.
About this tool
The Sleep Cycle Calculator is built for speed and accuracy: every calculation runs in your browser, so your data never leaves your device and the result updates as you type. It works equally well on a phone, a tablet or a desktop, and it is free to use as many times as you like.
Common use cases
- Setting a smart alarm before bed.
- Planning a power nap (1 cycle = 90 minutes).
- Working backwards from an early meeting.
- Catching up after a poor night of sleep.
Tips for the best result
- Use the latest figures you have - even a small change in rate or term can shift the outcome by hundreds.
- For annual figures, divide by 12 to get a monthly number you can compare with the result.
- Bookmark this page and revisit the calculation as the inputs change.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a sleep cycle?
About 90 minutes on average, varying from 70 to 110. The calculator uses 90 as a standard.
What if I wake in the middle of a cycle?
That is normal; you will feel groggy for 15-30 minutes. Get up, get some light and the effect fades. Use the calculator to plan the alarm so you are near the end of a cycle.