What Is the Pomodoro Technique?
Tomatoes are delicious and nutritious, but did you know they can also make your work more expeditious? Feeling suspicious? Don’t be! Named after the Italian word for tomato, the Pomodoro technique is a simple but surprisingly effective way to boost focus, manage time, and get more done.
In the 1980s, university student Francesco Cirillo was burnt out. Like many learners overwhelmed by deadlines and schoolwork, he was struggling to keep motivated. Seeking a better way stay focused, Cirillo was inspired by the tomato-shaped kitchen timer in his apartment and taught himself how to study effectively by breaking down work into targeted 25-minute intervals (called pomodoros) and using short breaks as rewards.
Today, the Pomodoro technique is embraced by students and professionals alike, and it’s perfect for anyone looking to add more time management into their day and train their brain to tune out distractions—no actual tomatoes required!
What Are the Steps to the Pomodoro Technique
More than just a study hack, the Pomodoro technique can help improve concentration, boost productivity, and reduce procrastination. All you need to get started is a timer and something to write with, and you’re ready for your first pomodoro with these easy steps:
- Choose your task.
- Set your timer for 25 minutes.
- Work for the entire 25 minutes, no more and no less.
- Take a five-minute break to rest and recharge.
- After four pomodoro cycles, take a longer break.
- Keep track of each pomodoro and the tasks you worked on.
Pomodoro Technique Rules
This technique takes discipline, but one of its benefits is that it can be flexible if you need different allotments for your work and breaks. Whatever the size of your pomodoro, there are a few key rules to follow to make sure you’re getting the most out of your time.
Break Up Big Tasks
When picking a task, think small. This will help keep your work sessions focused and successful. If you have a complex job to do, use your pomodoros to break it up into manageable pieces.
Combine Small Tasks
Taking a single pomodoro to knock out several short tasks is a good way to eliminate those small items that can become distractions during your day.
Remember: A Pomodoro Is Indivisible
Your timer should run until it’s done. If you must stop in the middle, reset and start fresh at the beginning of a new 25 minutes (or whatever time period you choose). If you complete your task before the time is up, take the remainder to review your work instead of starting something new or taking a longer break.
Use Your Breaks Wisely
Pomodoro breaks are as important as work sessions, and their point is to give your eyes and mind a rest, so make sure you physically get up and away from your work.
Apply This Technique at Excelsior University
Learning online takes time management, especially if where and how you study is completely up to you. Using the structured approach of the Pomodoro technique for your courses, with its focused work sessions and short breaks, can help you do more and feel more accomplished as you complete each pomodoro. Plus, the short breaks between study intervals allow the brain to process information more effectively, leading to better memory retention for what you’re learning.
If the Pomodoro technique has you feeling inspired, Excelsior University has even more tips for studying and resources for how to be successful in college.
Learn more about Excelsior and get started today.
