The Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. The technique uses a timer to break work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks.
How It Works
- Choose a task to focus on
- Set the timer to 25 minutes (1 Pomodoro)
- Work on the task until the timer rings
- Take a short break (5 minutes)
- After 4 Pomodoros, take a longer break (15-30 minutes)
Why It Works
- Reduces burnout: Regular breaks prevent mental fatigue
- Improves focus: The time constraint creates urgency
- Enhances motivation: Small wins build momentum
- Provides structure: Clear work/break periods
Tips for Success
- Protect your Pomodoro - treat it as a sacred work period
- If interrupted, either end the Pomodoro or defer the interruption
- Use breaks to stand, stretch, hydrate, or rest your eyes
- Adjust times if needed (e.g., 50/10 or 90/20 for deep work)
- Track completed Pomodoros to measure productivity
The technique is named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer Cirillo used as a university student ("pomodoro" is Italian for tomato).