How Long Should a Nap Be: Choose Duration by Purpose, Sleep Inertia, and the Next Task

How Long Should A Nap Be

Nap duration should be chosen by purpose, expected time to fall asleep, the chance of post-nap grogginess, and the task that follows waking. Time in bed is not the same as time asleep, so the alarm must account for settling time as well as the wake-up buffer. Brief naps can fit quick alertness goals, while

Best Time to Nap: Place the Nap Between Wake Time, Bedtime, and the Job It Needs to Do

Best Time To Nap

The best time to nap depends on where the nap sits between wake time, intended bedtime, and the task that follows it. A 2 p.m. nap can be early, mid-day, or late depending on whether the person woke at 5 a.m., 8 a.m., or noon. Choose the nap window by purpose, available sleep opportunity, time