Pomodoro Technique

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A "pomodoro" kitchen timer, after which the method is named



Underlying principles[edit]

There are five basic steps to implementing the technique:

  1. Decide on the task to be done
  2. Set the pomodoro timer to n minutes (traditionally 25)[1]
  4. Take a short break (3-5 minutes)
  5. Every four "pomodori" take a longer break (15–30 minutes)


For the purposes of the technique, "pomodoro" refers to the interval of time spent working.[1] After task completion, any time remaining in the "pomodoro" is devoted to overlearning. Regular breaks are taken, aiding assimilation. A short (3-5 minute) rest separates consecutive "pomodori". Four "pomodori" form a set. A longer (15-30 minute) rest is taken between sets.[1][6]



The creator and others encourage a low-tech approach using a mechanical timer, paper and pencil. The physical act of winding up the timer confirms the user's determination to start the task; ticking externalises desire to complete the task; ringing announces a break. Flow and focus become associated with these physical stimuli.[1][8]

The technique has inspired software applications for a variety of platforms.[9][10]



See also[edit]


  1. ^ a b c d e f g Cirillo, Francesco. The Pomodoro Technique. Retrieved 2011-05-08. 
  2. ^ Cirillo, Francesco. "The Pomodoro Technique (The Pomodoro)". Retrieved 11 November 2013. 
  3. ^ Shellenbarger, Sue (2009-11-18). "''Shellenbarger, Sue'' (November 2009) The Wall Street Journal - "Testing Time Management Strategies"". Online.wsj.com. Retrieved 2010-10-27. 
  4. ^ "''Tambini, Arielle; Ketz, Nicholas; Davachi, Lila'' "Enhanced Brain Correlations during Rest Are Related to Memory for Recent Experiences" Neuron (January 2010)". Cell.com. Retrieved 2010-10-27. 
  5. ^ Olsen, Patricia R. (September 2009)The New York Times- "For Writing Software, a Buddy System"
  6. ^ a b Nöteberg, Staffan. Pomodoro Technique Illustrated. Raleigh, N.C: Pragmatic Bookshelf. ISBN 978-1-934356-50-0. 
  7. ^ Kaufman, Josh (2011). The Personal MBA: A World-Class Business Education in a Single Volume. Penguin UK. ISBN 978-0-14-197109-4. 
  8. ^ Burkeman, Oliver (2011). Help! : how to be slightly happier, slightly more successful and get a bit more done. Edinburgh: Canongate. pp. 139–140. ISBN 978-0-85786-025-5. 
  9. ^ Sande, Steven (2009-11-28). "The Pomodoro Technique, or how a tomato made me more productive". Tuaw.com. Retrieved 2010-10-27. 
  10. ^ Pash, Adam (2011). Lifehacker the guide to working smarter, faster, and better. Indianapolis, Ind: Wiley. Hack 29. ISBN 978-1-118-13345-3. 
  11. ^ "FAQ - The Pomodoro Technique". Pomodorotechnique.com. 2010-06-28. Retrieved 2010-10-27. 

External links[edit]