Pomodoro Technique: Study Skills

Il pomodoroPomodoro Technique: “The Pomodoro Technique® is a time-management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980s. The technique uses a timer (originally a tomato-shaped kitchen timer) to break work into 25-minute intervals of focused work, each interval followed by a short break” (Oakley & Sejnowski, 2016).

Pomodoro: ‘Pomodoro’ is Italian for tomato.

Study Time Aim: To ensure a carefully timed, focused session of study or work is utilised. Time is precious for both study and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Try to plan and block out focused pomodoro time:

  • 2 x Pomodoro’s (Total 60 mins for 2 x 25 mins pomodoro with 2 x 5 min break).
  • 4 x  Pomodoro’s (Total 120 mins for 4 x 25 mins pomodoro with 4 x 5 mins breaks).

Why Pomodoro?

  1. Work with time – not against it.
  2. Eliminate burnout.
  3. Manage distractions.
  4. Create a better work/life balance.

From The Pomodoro Technique (2016).

To Do’s Implementing Pomodoro:

  1. How much effort/time does the activity/learning require?
  2. Protect your pomodoro time. Remove all distractions like mobile phones, social media, tablets, children, pets, friends, family. In other words block out the world.
  3. Calculate the number of pomodoro’s into this time frame.
  4. Recap- work – review process to study.
  5. Set a ‘to do’ with timelines – ensure free time is incorporated for well-being.
  6. Set your personal objectives you want to achieve (the motivation part).

From The Pomodoro Technique (2016).

Avoid Procrastination: “Procrastination is putting off or delaying of a task which you should be giving immediate attention. Procrastination usually involves doing more pleasurable things (e.g. checking social media) in place of less pleasurable ones (e.g. homework), or carrying out less urgent tasks instead of more urgent ones” (Oakley & Sejnowski, 2016).

Pomodoro Technique For Productivity Video by Trello


The Pomodoro Technique (2016) What is the Pomodoro Technique?

Oakley, B. & Sejnowski, T. (2016) Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects. Coursera.