By: Joxery Mezen Camacho
The Pomodoro technique is a time management technique created by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980’s. It is still used by many today.
The main idea is that you make a list of what you need/want to get done that day and then set a timer for 25 minutes. In those 25 minutes, you work on the first task at hand without any distractions. After time is up, you take a 4-5 minute break and then do it all over again. Doing this once is called a “pomodoro”. After 4 pomodoros, you take a longer 15-30 minute break.
This technique is nice because of its multiple breaks. After the break, you start the timer again, hopefully feeling refreshed and ready to begin working again.
Another variation of this technique is to set a timer for an hour and take a 30 minute break. I personally prefer using this method because I get to watch an episode on Netflix, do a quick workout, or small meditation session, in comparison to the 5 minute break where all I do is eat a quick snack or get up and stretch.
This variation also seems to be good because in a recent study at the University of California, they found that it takes most people about 23 minutes and 15 seconds to focus after a distraction not related to their work. Therefore, the hour gives you more time to work in a focused manner compared to the 25 minutes.
Using the Pomodoro technique has helped change my perspective and feelings towards work. I no longer dread doing my homework or studying as much as I once did. It’s also nice because I get to look forward to doing what I want during those breaks, and feel more motivated to turn back to my work after the break is over.
Both variations of the technique are effective and beneficial to many people, so trying both and seeing which one works best for you is key. You could also try and make your own variation depending on what your day looks like!
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