Learning Resources | Manage Time | Stay Focused

Pomodoro Technique

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What Is It?

The Pomodoro Technique was developed in the late 1980’s by Francesco Cirillo, an Italian college student struggling with the typical student concerns of managing distractions and combatting mental fatigue and procrastination.

Francesco realized that breaking down assignments into more manageable chunks and focusing intently for more frequent but shorter periods of time across his week, rather than “cramming” for longer periods, proved beneficial for his learning and retention.

He used a common household item, a tomato shaped kitchen timer, and thus was born the Pomodoro Technique. Pomodoro means tomato in Italian!

It’s a simple tool, that can give you small wins that will accumulate over time.

How Does It Work?

  1. Define the task to be worked on
  2. Set a timer for 25 minutes
  3. Concentrate only on this task until the time is up
  4. Take a 5-minute break (preferably not on a screen)
  5. Every 4 Pomodoros take a longer 15-30 minute break

 

Key Points

  • You can only attend to the previously defined single task
  • Try not to ‘break your Pomodoro – keep going until the timer is up
  • Set up your environment to avoid distractions during your Pomodoro
Tip
Any task that will take less than one Pomodoro can be combined with other simple tasks.

For example, "check email" and "make doctor’s appointment," could go together in one session.

Why It's Helpful

  • Breaking tasks into short, manageable 25-minute chunks can help prevent mental fatigue
  • Brings focus to tasks in order to reach goals more efficiently
  • Discourages multi-tasking
  • Helps you monitor how much time tasks need, which will aid in future planning
  • Regular, structured breaks can refresh your attention and lead to better absorption of material
  • By dividing larger tasks into smaller, less daunting steps, procrastination is less likely
Tip
Experiment to find what works best for you.

Depending on your energy and your task, longer periods can also be effective.

(for example, 52 minutes of work and 17 minutes of break).