I use a lid too — just a little differently. I've calculated my own timing for soft or hardboiled eggs and for minimizing energy use. So, for soft boiled eggs, I bring the water to just a boil; cover with a good fitting lid; turn off the heat; leave untouched for 8 to 12 minutes, depending on if you want runny soft-boil or a bit firmer. For hard boiled eggs, bring to a boil on high; reduce to about 4 on my biggest gas burner and let boil for 5 minutes; cover and turn off the heat; leave untouched for 30 minutes.

I make a habit of trying to minimize my energy uses — especially in the summer when you don't want to additionally heat up the house.