The Pomodoro Technique: A Time Management Plan

Okay, so maybe it’s just bringing effective time management skills back. Whatever the case may be, the Pomodoro Technique is a fantastic time management method that has gained popularity with its promise to help you “do more and have fun with time management”. Originally developed by Francisco Cirillo in the late 1980’s, this method is named after the Italian word for “tomato”, a tribute to the tomato-shaped timer Cirillo used while attending university.

The overall premise of the Pomodoro Technique is relatively simple:

• First, decide on a task to tackle. It doesn’t matter what it is, or whether you will accomplish it in one session or not. It simply needs to be something that deserves your full attention.
• Set a timer for 25 minutes.
• Work on the assigned task for the allotted time, without interruption. If, like most people, something else comes to mind during the 25 minutes, simply write it down and save it for once that session, or “pomodoro”, is finished.
• Once you’re finished, put a checkmark on your to-do list to represent the completed pomodoro.
• Take a short break at the end of the 25 minutes before starting another session. This can be a couple to a few minutes in length, but not so long that it is difficult for you to refocus on work.
• When you have completed four pomodoros, take a longer 20 or 30 minute break before starting the process all over.

The Benefits of the Technique

The proponents of the technique tout its ability not only to help you get things done, but also help you gain a better understanding of exactly where and how you spend your time — knowledge that can be useful when planning future tasks.

In addition, some of the immediate benefits include:

• Seeing exactly how much time tasks actually take.
• Reducing distractions and interruptions. For example, if you have no clear timeframe in mind as to how long you will work, it can be difficult to ignore phone calls, emails or texts. Without knowing when the next break will be, each communication’s importance is exaggerated. Knowing you will only work 25 minutes before taking a break, however, makes it easier to let that call go to voicemail, or not respond to that email or text. After all, you’ll be able to turn your attention to it in a mere 25 minutes at most.
• Recognizing trends and using that information to make adjustments in your schedule. The technique may also help individuals reduce the risk of burnout. Because it enforces short breaks, with longer ones after several pomodoros, it helps you recharge and clear your mind before continuing to the next task.

Who Is the Technique For—And Who Is It Not For?

As with all things, the Pomodoro Technique is not for everyone. Individuals who will probably gain the most benefit are those who find themselves at the extremes of the time management spectrum.

For individuals who have trouble focusing, are easily distracted, tend to procrastinate or simply don’t like their work, the technique may be an effective way to overcome those obstacles and achieve new levels of productivity.

On the other end of the spectrum, a workaholic who enjoys their work and risks burnout because they overdo it may find that the Pomodoro Technique helps them be more balanced in their work.

For those in-between, your mileage will vary. Many individuals will find the method refreshing while others may find it overly restrictive. In either case, there’s a reason that the Pomodoro Technique has gained such popularity, including coverage in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, The Guardian, The New York Times, and Newsweek. Give it a try—you may be surprised at the benefits.

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