Abstract: A portable timer with an alarm, wherein the timed period is limited to multiples of certain discrete periods of time (i.e. fifteen minutes, thirty minutes, one hour, two hours, etc.) without reference to the actual time of the day or to any specific minute or hour of the day. Thus, users need never convert to actual time the length of a period to be timed nor set the device to local time prior to use. The alarm may be set and the timing function initiated with the push of a single button. The device is further operable to provide audible feedback in the form of human speech regarding its operation and operative mode. Additionally, the device allows for the recording of a short message to be played in lieu of an alarm tone at the end of the timed period.