TapNoiseEnd the work session by preserving context, not just closing windows. Save the result, note the next action and stop the audio or timers you no longer need.
Leave a useful starting point
Write one or two sentences about what is done and what remains. For code, name the failing check or file you need next. For writing, leave a short note about the next paragraph instead of an unexplained half-sentence.
Confirm that important documents are saved and that a background build or agent has reached a state you understand. A completion sound alone does not explain whether work remains.
Review the running tools
Stop timers that no longer serve a purpose and turn off a temporary Focus if you want ordinary notifications again. Pause music or sound playback deliberately rather than relying on an output-device disconnect.
If a microphone indicator remains active, identify the app before leaving a recorder running. Do not force-quit a process with unsaved work merely to make the indicator disappear.
Secure the machine
Lock the screen with Control-Command-Q when stepping away. If leaving with the laptop, take it with you rather than relying on a software alarm to protect it unattended.
For the next morning, a small session-start routine is enough. Guard Mode can add a deterrent in appropriate situations, but it is not a substitute for the lock screen or physical control of the Mac.
Sources: Apple’s keyboard shortcuts, TapNoise Guard Mode limits.