The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. Named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer he used as a student, the technique breaks work into focused intervals, typically 25 minutes long, called “Pomodoros,” followed by short breaks.

To use the method, you choose a task, set a timer for 25 minutes, and work without interruption. Once the time is up, you take a 5-minute break. After completing four Pomodoros, you take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. This rhythm helps maintain focus while preventing mental fatigue.

The technique encourages working with time instead of against it. The ticking timer creates a sense of urgency, which often helps reduce distractions and procrastination. It also leads to greater awareness of how time is used, helping users plan and estimate tasks more effectively.

Though simple, the Pomodoro Technique also involves tracking completed intervals, noting interruptions, and reviewing progress. Over time, this builds a clearer picture of your working habits and areas for improvement.

It’s especially popular with students, writers, programmers, and others who benefit from structure and short bursts of concentration. While many apps support the method, all you really need is a timer and something to track your Pomodoros.

At its core, the Pomodoro Technique builds discipline by turning large, overwhelming tasks into manageable chunks. It fosters sustained focus and helps make productivity feel less stressful, one Pomodoro at a time.