The Pomodoro Technique | A Time Management Method For Students

There are tons of time management techniques out there, like making schedules and using to-do lists. However, as students, we know that time can be hard to manage. Between classes, assignments, studying for exams (and maintaining a social life), it can feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day. This is where the Pomodoro Technique comes in.

Pomodoro – “aka tomato” – was developed in the late 1980s by Francesco Cirillo when he was a college student looking for a way to focus and boost productivity. The concept is simple: work for a set period of time and then take a short break before starting another cycle. After four cycles, take a longer break of around 30 minutes.

The technique has gained popularity among students and professionals alike because it can help you manage your time effectively.

In this post, we’ll discuss the Pomodoro Technique in detail and how it can benefit you.

What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It’s based on a tomato-shaped kitchen timer (hence the name “pomodoro”, which means tomato in Italian).

How Does the Pomodoro Technique Work?

The technique involves breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks of 25 minutes called “pomodoros,” which are separated by short breaks. After four pomodoros, take a longer break of around 30 minutes.

The idea behind this method is to break work into smaller chunks and take regular breaks.

Here is an example of how a normal student’s schedule might look like using the Pomodoro Technique:

• 9:00am – 9:25am: First Pomodoro of studying for a biology exam
• 9:25am – 9:30am: Short break to stretch, grab a snack, etc.
• 9:30am – 9:55am: Second Pomodoro of studying for a biology exam
• 9:55am – 10:00am : Short break
• 10:00am – 10:25am: Third Pomodoro of studying for a biology exam
• 10:25 am -10:30 am : Short Break
• 10:30 am: Start Fourth Pomodoro of studying for a biology exam
• 10:55am-11:00am: Long break to eat lunch, go for a walk, etc.

By sticking to this schedule, the student can better manage their time, stay focused on the learning material, and dodge the stress that can lead to burnout!

How Can You Start With This Technique?

Follow this step-by-step process to apply the Pomodoro time management technique to your life.

• Step 1: Get your schedule or to-do list and a timer. (You can use your mobile phone or your mother’s kitchen timer.)
• Step 2: Set your timer for 25 minutes as you start your first pomodoro of studying. (Keep your focus on this task ONLY.)
• Step 3: After the timer goes off, take a short 5-minute break. (Get up from your chair, walk around or stretch.)
• Step 4: Next, set your timer for another 25 minutes and start the second pomodoro of studying.
• Step 5: After four completed pomodoros, take a longer break of 30 minutes before starting again.

It’s crucial to stick to these time frames strictly.

If any distractions arise during the working period, make a quick note and deal with them later during your breaks. To avoid distractions during these periods, make sure to set up a distraction-free study space for yourself.

Do You Have To Stick To 25-minutes?

No, this is the great part about the Pomodoro technique! The time intervals can be adjusted according to your preferences.

For some people, 25 minutes may not be enough, and they may choose to do a longer study session with more extended breaks in between. Others may find that 25 minutes is too long and prefer shorter intervals, like 15 or 20 minutes.

The idea is to experiment and find what works best for you as long as you follow the basic structure.

The Benefits of Using the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro technique has several benefits that can help students.

These benefits include:

1. Motivation

As a student carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, motivation might be hard to find sometimes.

The Pomodoro technique provides a tangible goal and short-term rewards.

For example, after completing one Pomodoro session, you get to take a break and reward yourself with something you enjoy. The constant cycle of studying and breaks keeps you motivated and focused, knowing that a break is coming up soon.

2. Focus

We focus by limiting our time to complete a task.

With the Pomodoro technique, you have a set amount of time to work on a specific task. This creates a sense of urgency and helps students stay focused without any distractions.

3. Productivity

Focus and productivity usually go hand in hand. You can get more work done efficiently by staying focused during a set time interval.

The short breaks in between also serve as a chance to recharge and come back to your next session with renewed energy.

4. Mental Agility

Working for long hours without an end in sight can drain students physically and mentally.

The Pomodoro technique breaks down your study sessions into manageable intervals, allowing for mental recovery in between.

This helps increase mental agility, making it easier to retain information and learn better.

5. Procrastination

Procrastination is a common struggle for many students, especially when faced with long and challenging tasks.

The Pomodoro technique’s structure encourages consistent work with short breaks in between, making it easier for students to get started on their tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

Manage Your Time & Get Things Done!

The Pomodoro technique is a simple yet effective time management tool. Whether you need to complete a project, do your homework, or study for exams, this technique is a lifesaver.

At Tutor Doctor, we strongly believe that time management is a key component of academic success.

That’s why we encourage you to try out the Pomodoro technique and see how it can improve your focus, productivity, and mental agility and help beat procrastination.

Don’t let time slip away. Start using the Pomodoro technique and take control of your study sessions today!

If you still need help, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our private tutoring services in South Africa can provide personalised support to help you reach your academic goals.