Computers are a tool that you can use or be used by. I have written about my tool-taming tactics before, including blocking distracting websites in my hosts file. My “checking” function is the natural evolution of that tactic. It implements the core functionality of popular anti-procrastination apps like ColdTurkey, LeechBlock NG, Freedom, and Self Control in just ~12 lines of bash. Here’s how to get set up with “checking”: Back-up your existing /etc/hosts file. Rename it to /etc/hosts-checking...