What is the Pomodoro Technique – and how can it help you study better?

Struggling to stay focused while studying? Then the Pomodoro Technique might be just what you need. It's a simple but powerful method that helps you maintain focus, reduce procrastination, and get more done in less time.

What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that breaks your study sessions into short, focused intervals. A classic pomodoro lasts for 25 minutes, followed by a short break. After four pomodoros, you take a longer break. The name comes from a tomato-shaped kitchen timer – 'pomodoro' means tomato in Italian – used by the technique's creator, Francesco Cirillo, when he developed the method back in the 1980s.

How do you use the Pomodoro Technique?

To get started, choose a task to focus on. Then set a timer for 25 minutes and work on the task without any interruptions until the timer rings. Once the time is up, take a short 5-minute break. After completing four of these focused intervals, take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. During each pomodoro, it's essential to avoid all distractions like your phone, emails, or social media. The goal is to enter a state of flow where you can concentrate fully without burning out.

Why does the Pomodoro Technique work?

This technique works because it respects how the brain functions. Many people struggle to maintain focus for long stretches, but 25 minutes is short enough to feel manageable and long enough to make progress. The built-in breaks give your brain time to rest and reset, which helps reduce mental fatigue. The Pomodoro Technique also helps fight procrastination by providing a clear starting and ending point for each session. It's much easier to start studying when you know you only have to focus for 25 minutes at a time.

Is the Pomodoro Technique good for students?

Yes, it's perfect for students! Many students find it hard to get started or stay concentrated, especially when preparing for exams or working on large assignments. The Pomodoro Technique makes it easier to structure your study time and break it down into smaller, more manageable chunks. It's especially useful when reading textbooks, revising for tests, writing essays, or reviewing lecture notes. You can also combine it with other study methods like active note-taking or using flashcards.

What apps or tools can you use?

All you really need is a timer, but there are several helpful apps that make the technique easier to follow. For example, you can try Focus To-Do, which is available for both desktop and mobile, Pomofocus.io, a web-based option, or Forest, which makes studying more fun by letting you grow virtual trees while you stay focused. These tools help track your pomodoros and remind you when it's time for a break.

Want to get more done in less time?

The Pomodoro Technique is easy to try – all you need is a task, a timer, and the willingness to focus. Next time you open your textbook or start preparing for an exam, give pomodoro a go. On Bright, you can also find all your course books in one place, so you can quickly dive into your next focused study session. 🍅

Good luck with your studies!