The Pomodoro Technique

Simple method for quickly boosting your focus & productivity

The technique

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s.

The technique uses a timer to break down work into intervals traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. These intervals are known as “pomodori”, the plural of the Italian word pomodoro for “tomato”.

The method is based on the idea that frequent breaks can improve mental agility.

The principle

Here are the basic steps to implementing the technique:

1. Decide on the task to be done.
2. Set the pomodoro timer to 25 minutes.
3. Work on the task until the notification rings.
4. Take a short, 5 minutes break.
5. Continue working.
6. Every fourth “pomodoro” take a longer break (15–30 minutes).

The tool

The number of Pomodoro timers on the market is quite big. I personally recommend these:

• Tasklog – The most advanced Pomodoro timer online, combined with regular time tracker, task manager and expense tracker.