#Boost Your Productivity Potential with Pomodoro Technique -

Do you struggle to stay on task while studying, working on a paper or mapping out a project? Does your productivity suffer because there are just. too. many. things. SAME!

Whether I suddenly decide to scroll through Etsy for a birthday present for my roommate, I interrupt French vocabulary memorization to get inspo for lunch (because French class reminds me of croissants and rich-tasting coffee), or I think about a cute way to braid my hair while reading about which British monarch beheaded which infertile queen (what hairstyle do you wear for such an occasion?), I have a short attention span (look–squirrel).

Focus is Key to Productivity

I have found the way to stay focused is a timer. Whether my phone or my watch, I set a timer for a pre-determined time but turning off the phone timer tempts me to check out TikTok. I can’t help it–it’s RIGHT THERE!

The BEST system to keep me on track is the Pomodoro Technique (BTW, pomodoro means “tomato” in Italian).

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that improves my productivity. It breaks work into manageable intervals, allowing for periods of intense focus followed by short breaks. It can enhance productivity, prevent burnout and improve time management skills. AND, by using the method consistently, you can train your brain to maintain high levels of focus during work intervals while avoiding mental fatigue to make the most of your study or work sessions.

For me, the key is “manageable intervals.” I figure I can do just about 25 minutes — if I get rewarded at the end. And honestly, I am often on a roll and continue on instead of taking a break–especially when I am writing something and I don’t want to lose focus. If not, I don’t feel the least bit guilty about taking a break. Also, I get a lot of satisfaction noting how many Pomodoro intervals I slayed during study sessions.

There are Pomodoro timers you can buy on Amazon, but I am a fan of a Pomodoro app called Marinara: Pomodoro Assistant. I use it as an extension on Google Chrome and you can find it on the Chrome web store at chromewebstore.google.com.

How to Pomodoro

Here’s how to use the Pomodoro Technique:

Choose a Task: Select a specific task that you want to work on, such as studying for an exam, writing a paper, or completing a project.
Set a Timer: Set a timer for a predetermined work interval, typically 25 minutes. This interval is known as a “Pomodoro.”
Work on the Task: Focus on the chosen task and work diligently during the Pomodoro interval. Minimize distractions and commit to the task at hand.
Take a Short Break: When the Pomodoro interval ends, take a short break of around 5 minutes. Use this time to stretch, drink some water (gotta hydrate!), grab a snack, (remember that croissant and yummy coffee?) or take a brief rest.
Repeat: After the short break, start another Pomodoro interval and continue working on the task. Repeat this cycle of focused work and short breaks.
Long Break: After completing four Pomodoros, take a longer break of around 15-30 minutes. Use this time to relax, recharge, and prepare for the next set of Pomodoros.
Track Progress: Keep track of the number of Pomodoros completed and the tasks accomplished for the win! It’s a great way to provide a sense of accomplishment and help you gauge your productivity.