The Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro timer technique is a method of using planning, a timer, and breaks can help you become more efficient and learn to sustain your attention for a longer period of time as well.
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. The technique uses a timer to break down work into intervals traditionally 25 minutes in length (but you should start with a shorter interval and increase the interval slowly over time), separated by short breaks. The name comes from the Italian word pomodoro for "tomato." If you search for this technique you will see that these techniques frequently use a "tomato timer" or a kitchen timer. This method takes advantage of the idea that breaks can develop and improve mental agility.
How to Use the Pomodoro Technique
Whats great about this?!?! Look how well this lines up with our Prepare - Take Action - Reflect model. Planning, monitoring, and reflection are important components of the pomodoro technique.
You can couple this technique with a prioritized "To-Do list" to keep you focused on what you should spend your next pomodoro on. See the "Time management" page for more information about to-do lists and examples.
You don't need high technology to do this just a timer. a piece of paper, and planning!
Here are some online tools that you can use for this potentially fun strategy. Smartphone APPS
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. The technique uses a timer to break down work into intervals traditionally 25 minutes in length (but you should start with a shorter interval and increase the interval slowly over time), separated by short breaks. The name comes from the Italian word pomodoro for "tomato." If you search for this technique you will see that these techniques frequently use a "tomato timer" or a kitchen timer. This method takes advantage of the idea that breaks can develop and improve mental agility.
How to Use the Pomodoro Technique
- Select a task to complete
- Set the pomodoro timer to ____X____ minutes
- Work on the task until the timer rings. When you finish, go ahead and give yourself a point on your monitoring chart.
- Set Timer for a short break (3-5 minutes)
- Every four "pomodoros" take a longer break (10–30 minutes)
Whats great about this?!?! Look how well this lines up with our Prepare - Take Action - Reflect model. Planning, monitoring, and reflection are important components of the pomodoro technique.
You can couple this technique with a prioritized "To-Do list" to keep you focused on what you should spend your next pomodoro on. See the "Time management" page for more information about to-do lists and examples.
You don't need high technology to do this just a timer. a piece of paper, and planning!
- BUT if you'd like to use some tech tools:
Here are some online tools that you can use for this potentially fun strategy. Smartphone APPS
- "Pomodroido" free app for android operating system smart phones
- Iphone pomodoro apps here