What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Italian entrepreneur Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. "Pomodoro" means tomato in Italian, named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer Cirillo used as a university student.

Basic Steps

1. Choose a Task

First, select one task to work on. Break down large tasks into multiple pomodoros.

2. Focus for 25 Minutes

Set a timer for 25 minutes and focus completely on your chosen task. Avoid interruptions and don't work on other tasks.

3. Take a 5-Minute Break

After 25 minutes, take a short 5-minute break. Stand up, walk around, or do some stretching.

4. Repeat

Repeat this cycle. After 4 pomodoros (about 2 hours), take a longer 15-30 minute break.

Why is it Effective?

1. Maintains Focus

Human concentration has limits in duration. Breaking work into 25-minute intervals helps maintain high focus.

2. Reduces Fatigue

Regular breaks reduce mental fatigue and maintain performance during long work sessions.

3. Prevents Procrastination

25 minutes feels manageable, lowering the barrier to starting tasks.

4. Visualizes Progress

Counting completed pomodoros makes your productivity visible.

Tips for Getting Started

Don't Aim for Perfection

You don't need to strictly follow all rules from the start. Customize it to fit your needs.

Prepare Tasks in Advance

List out your tasks for the day before starting pomodoros.

Record Interruptions

If interrupted during work, record it. Analyzing these later helps identify what breaks your focus.

Start with Pomoro

Pomoro is a web app that makes practicing the Pomodoro Technique easy. With timer, task management, and statistics features, it supports your productivity improvement.

Start your pomodoro now on the [timer page](/timer)!