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A Pomodoro timer splits work into 25-minute focus sessions separated by 5-minute breaks, with a longer break after every four sessions. Tap Focus to begin, and tap a break when the alarm rings.
- Focus session
- 25 minutes
- Short break
- 5 minutes
- Long break
- 15 to 30 minutes, after four sessions
- One full cycle
- About 2 hours 10 minutes
- Created by
- Francesco Cirillo, late 1980s
How to use the Pomodoro Technique
- Pick one task. Choose a single task to work on and write it down.
- Set the timer for 25 minutes. Start a 25-minute timer and work only on that task until it rings.
- Take a 5-minute break. When the timer rings, stop and rest for 5 minutes away from your work.
- Repeat four times. Complete four 25-minute sessions, with a 5-minute break after each one.
- Take a longer break. After the fourth session, rest for 15 to 30 minutes before starting again.
Tips that make it stick
- Protect the session. If something else comes to mind, write it down and return to it during the break.
- Really stop at the bell. Stand up, stretch, or get water. Scrolling your phone is not much of a rest.
- Break large tasks down. If a task needs more than four pomodoros, split it into smaller parts.
- Batch small tasks. Combine quick jobs such as email into one session.
- Hide the numbers if the clock distracts you. Switch the display to the progress bar and check "Hide numbers".
Pomodoro for students and classrooms
The same rhythm works for homework and study halls. Younger students often do better with shorter sessions — try a15 minute timer with a 3 minute movement break — and avisual timer helps them see the session winding down. Teachers can project theclassroom timer so the whole room works and rests together. For break ideas, see15 quick brain breaks.
Pomodoro FAQ
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro Technique is a time-management method in which you work in focused 25-minute sessions, called pomodoros, separated by 5-minute breaks. After four pomodoros you take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. It was developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s.
What is a pomodoro?
A pomodoro is one 25-minute block of uninterrupted work on a single task. It is the basic unit of the Pomodoro Technique and is always followed by a short break.
What does "pomodoro" mean?
"Pomodoro" is the Italian word for tomato. The technique is named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer that its creator, Francesco Cirillo, used as a university student.
How does a Pomodoro timer work?
It counts down 25 minutes of work, rings, and then counts down a 5-minute break. On this page, tap "Focus" to start a work session and "Short break" or "Long break" when the alarm sounds.
Does the Pomodoro Technique actually work?
Many people find it helps them start tasks and stay focused, because a 25-minute commitment feels manageable and the breaks prevent fatigue. Research on taking regular short breaks is generally supportive, but studies of the Pomodoro Technique itself are limited, so the best test is to try it for a few days.
How many pomodoros should I do in a day?
There is no fixed number. Many people aim for 8 to 12 pomodoros, which is roughly 3.5 to 5 hours of focused work, and treat anything beyond that as a bonus.
Does the Pomodoro Technique work for ADHD?
Some people with ADHD find short, timed sessions make it easier to begin a task and to see time passing, especially with a visual timer. Others prefer shorter or longer sessions. It is a study habit, not a treatment, so adjust the lengths to what works for you.
Can I change the length of a pomodoro?
Yes. Twenty-five minutes is the classic length, but 50 minutes of work with a 10-minute break is a common alternative for deep work. Use the presets or type your own time.
Sources
- Francesco Cirillo, The Pomodoro Technique — the method's official description by its creator.
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