Proven to keep you focused, the Pomodoro technique is a great way to maximize your study sessions and work days.
In a world centered around work, productivity is an essential skill to get things done. Getting motivated for any study session or work day is challenging in and of itself. Just the thought of studying for a big exam or completing a project before a deadline is daunting.
However, there are plenty of great methods to boost your productivity and crush your to-do list. Today, we will discuss the renowned Pomodoro technique. The technique helps you stay focused and productive, all while allowing yourself the time to move around and give your weary eyes a rest from the computer screen.
What is the Pomodoro technique?
The Pomodoro technique, also known as the Pomodoro method, is a time-based productivity strategy to help you stay focused while you get things done.
Invented in the 1990s by author and entrepreneur Francesco Cirillo, the name “Pomodoro” derives from the tomato-shaped timer Cirillo used throughout his workdays.
Though some study techniques can be complex, the Pomodoro method is so effective because of its simplicity. It ensures that you stay focused for blocks of work time, but also permits you to take much-needed breaks to stay mentally fresh.
Here’s how the Pomodoro method works:
- Pick a task to complete. (For example, write the introduction of your research paper.)
- Set a timer for 25 minutes.
- Work on your task for that 25-minute time slot. No distractions allowed!
- After the time is up, take a 5-minute break.
- Repeat this cycle three more times for a total of four Pomodoros.
- Take a longer break anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, then start over!
Pretty easy right? That’s the beauty of the Pomodoro technique.
The 25-minute work period is essentially an unbreakable time contract. As a student or employee, you owe it to yourself to fulfill the 25-minute work slot of the Pomodoro technique.
Using the Pomodoro technique for studying and freelance work
As mentioned, Pomodoro helps students stay focused on their many tasks as scholars.
Whether you study for an exam or work on your term paper, the Pomodoro technique is useful for any task. The method itself is simple, but there are a few things you can do to enhance the Pomodoro technique for studying or freelance work.
First, it helps to combine smaller tasks together into a single Pomodoro. If you notice that you have a few tasks that will not use the entire 25-minute time slot, lump them together to get the most out of your work session.
The purpose of the Pomodoro method is to maximize productivity, so use all the time you can!
Second, and specifically for studying, it may help to record what you got done during a Pomodoro. Once the 25-minutes is up, it proves useful to write down either what task you completed or what you studied.
If you use the Pomodoro technique for studying, keeping a record of what you reviewed or completed helps you retain what you study.
Lastly, the Pomodoro technique helps break down complex tasks as well. Let’s say you’re working on a blog article. It’s unrealistic to get the whole article done in a single Pomodoro, so make the most of your time and break it down into smaller tasks.
Instead of setting the task as “Finish blog article,” break your article down into sections and use Pomodoro to complete your work bit-by-bit.
This technique is especially helpful if you want to learn how to become a writer.
Best Pomodoro technique timers
Unlike Cirillo, many of us do not have a tomato timer at the ready. Luckily, there are plenty of great websites and apps that provide the same functionality, and more. Below, we highlight some of the best Pomodoro technique timers and apps.
Pomofocus
Simple, sleek, and intuitive, Pomofocus is an excellent example of a great Pomodoro technique timer. The website itself is, very simply, a tomato timer. In the center of the page is the 25-minute timer with options for short and long breaks as well.
Included in the timer is a built-in to-do list. Here you can easily add and manage your tasks all on one page. As you complete tasks, the website adds your work to the report section at the top of the page. You can track your progress as you go and relish in your success!
Pomotodo
While Pomofocus is as simple as the Pomodoro technique itself, Pomotodo is a powerful tool for those looking for a bit now. After you sign up, you gain access to Pomotodo’s Pomodoro technique timer and their all-encompassing workflow and productivity app.
The to-do list tool is useful for any team or group working on a single project. Pomotodo includes a full productivity and workflow tracker to record your progress and see your work in real time. This wonderful tool is available across all major operating systems.
Xwavesoft
Like Pomotodo, Xwavesoft brands itself as an all-encompassing productivity and time management tool. Available on iOS and Mac, Xwavesoft has many wonderful features to help you stay focused, be productive, and track your progress.
Xwavesoft features an unpretentious interface with the Pomodoro timer as the focus. This Pomodoro app allows you to easily customize your workday to your needs, all while providing you with tools to track your productivity. Xwavesoft truly takes Pomodoro to the next level.
Engross
Last on our list of Pomodoro technique apps is the Engross app, which is available on both iOS and Android. While breaking from the traditional style, Engross features a number of useful tools with an incredibly sleek design.
The app is noticeably minimalist and easy to navigate. With a Pomodoro technique timer included, the app also serves as a planner. You can plan out your projects days, weeks, and even months in advance. Like others, the app includes statistics and trackers for your progress.
All in all, the Pomodoro technique is a proven method for productivity. Make use of apps, timers, and other resources that help keep you on track. Combine the Pomodoro technique with our list of study tips, and you will be cranking out projects and acing your schoolwork in no time.
Tips for a great study session
The Pomodoro technique is a great way to keep you focused on the task at hand. However, it is not the only technique or tool at your disposal. Along with the Pomodoro technique, there are several other strategies to maximize your work session.
For starters, it will help to eliminate any distractions. Social media is one of the biggest distractions there is. Before you work, put a lock on your social media apps. Some phones have features that allow you to use apps at certain times of the day, or limit how much time you spend on them altogether.
Second, you must get enough sleep. The importance of a proper night’s sleep cannot be overstated. Our brains work best when we allow ourselves the time to recharge. For adults, seven hours of sleep is ideal.
Avoid caffeinated beverages before bedtime, give yourself an hour to wind down, and keep your bedroom cool and quiet in order to get a great night of rest.
This leads to our next point. What you fuel your body with is just as important as how you treat it. “Brain foods” like leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish are scientifically-proven foods that benefit your brain. With proper sleep and a proper diet, you are fueling yourself for future success.
As humans are creatures of habits, the environment in which you work affects your productivity. Be sure to work or study in an environment that is distraction-free and relaxing. Just like how our brains are wired to make us sleepy when we get ready for bed, our brains adjust to different environments for different purposes.
Next, setting goals is a really effective technique to be productive and get things done. These are not just any goals, however. Using the SMART method of goal-setting is a great way to track your progress and keep you focused. SMART goals are:
- Specific. What is it exactly you need to accomplish?
- Measurable. How can you track your progress?
- Attainable. Can you meet your deadline? Is it realistic?
- Relevant. Will the work you do add value to your overall goal?
- Timely. When do you need to complete your project?
When you use the Pomodoro technique and set SMART goals, you can set achievable tasks for yourself and feel productive in the process.
Lastly, take the time to be mindful. In many practices, mindfulness is a great way to clear your head of any mental clutter. We all know what brain fog feels like, and it certainly hinders our progress. Permit yourself the time to practice mindfulness. Notice when your mind starts to drift, and gently bring your attention to the task at hand.
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