Define a transition’s start and end, record time with explicit units, and retain context in a fictional duration sheet.
Define what you are recording
In this example the timer starts when the person begins an agreed move between activities and ends when the move reaches its defined endpoint. This measures transition duration, not latency from an instruction to starting.
The fictional transition is moving from a chosen tabletop activity to a chosen reading space. Distance, mobility support, a pause and route changes can all affect duration.
Collect the data consistently
Write an observable start and end before starting the timer.
Record the duration and select seconds or minutes consistently.
Note route changes, voluntary pauses and support without assuming that shorter is better.
How to complete each data sheet column
Use the stated units and distinguish an observed zero from a missing observation.
Date: Date of this observation. Use YYYY-MM-DD, for example 2026-10-09. Rows are ordered by date; equal spacing on the graph does not represent elapsed calendar time.
Target: Short fictional or de-identified label for the one activity being observed. Use the same target throughout this report; keep its agreed definition in your approved record.
Phase: Optional label for the observation conditions, such as Observation A. A change creates a chart marker; it does not demonstrate a treatment effect.
Duration: Total observed time for the defined activity. Enter a non-negative number in the unit chosen next; 90 seconds and 1.5 minutes both graph as 1.5 minutes.
Unit: Choose seconds or minutes to match the entered duration. The report converts seconds to minutes; this setting does not change your source value.
Notes: Optional observation context or recording limitation. Exclude names, contact details and other identifiable clinical information.
Fictional worked example
These are original fictional observations, not patient records or a treatment recommendation.
Transition duration recording sheet
Date
Target
Phase
Duration
Unit
Notes
2026-01-05
Fictional transition-duration
Observation A
85
seconds
Fictional route A
2026-01-07
Fictional transition-duration
Observation A
92
seconds
Pause noted
2026-01-09
Fictional transition-duration
Observation A
78
seconds
Route A
2026-01-12
Fictional transition-duration
Observation B
105
seconds
Route B is longer
2026-01-14
Fictional transition-duration
Observation B
97
seconds
Route B
2026-01-16
Fictional transition-duration
Observation B
103
seconds
Fictional observation
Review and interpretation
Durations can be converted between seconds and minutes for display. A time difference alone cannot establish safety, comfort or an appropriate pace.
Do not mix start delay with the duration of movement.
A different route is a different observation condition.
An interrupted observation needs a note rather than a guessed total.
Questions for the clinical team
Which event starts the timer?
How are pauses represented?
Does the measure capture the question the person and clinician want to answer?