The Pomodoro Technique – an Amazing Time Management Method

For ages, people have tried to master time management techniques and be in control of it in their lives. Not many of us are able to master this skill to perfection.

We can only use different tools and methods which can help us become more productive. One of such methods is the very popular Pomodoro technique.

In this article, we will follow the author’s guide through the technique to give the best explanation on the subject.

What Is Pomodoro Technique?

Pomodoro technique is a method of time management that was invented in the late 1908s by Francesco Cirillo. As the name suggests, the technique uses the popular Pomodoro timer as a tool in setting time blocks.

Its aim is to manage time in an effective way and prevent its loss on activities that are not connected to the tasks we have to perform.

The Pomodoro technique consists of 4 “pomodoros” — 25 minute periods during which you work. When one Pomodoro ends, you take a 5-minute break. Afterward, you set another 25 minutes and keep repeating the action. After completing the 4-Pomodoro cycle, you take longer breaks.

This procedure happens with the use of the kitchen timer in the shape of a tomato, hence the name.

How to Use The Pomodoro Technique?

Once you have the timer, and it doesn’t have to be a kitchen timer in the tomato shape — it can be your clock, watch, a timer in your smartphone, a time tracking app, etc., you should follow the 6 steps:

1. Choose the task. You can either choose just one or a varied number, depending on your preferences. You can create a to-do list that will help you stay on track. Also, the 25-minute blocks can serve as the determinant of how long you want to work on particular tasks.
2. Set the timer for 25 minutes. It doesn’t matter that your project may take the entire day. Each Pomodoro is supposed to help you stay focused.
3. Work on your task for one Pomodoro. You shouldn’t spend 25 minutes on anything else but that one task. If you have something more to do, do it later, write it down not to forget about it.
4. Put a checkmark when the 25 minutes are over.
5. Take a break.
6. Take a longer break after each Pomodoro.

If you’d like to have a detailed guide through the Pomodoro technique and its advantages, you can find a detailed description in Cirillo’s book “The Pomodoro Technique.”

Pomodoro And Time Tracking

The technique is popular and used by many people because of its ease. It doesn’t require much attention, only a piece of paper, a pen, and a timer. But there is something peculiar about it. Doesn’t the method remind you of time tracking? After all, it’s all about making your work effective.

The Pomodoro technique may be considered as a time tracking method because in a way it helps in managing the time that has to be allocated to tasks or projects.

There are productivity and time tracking apps that include 25 minute intervals. Some tools are even dedicated solely to tracking your time with the Pomodoro timer.

However, there are a few differences between the two. Nevertheless, this method can be extremely helpful in time tracking and time management.

To Wrap It Up

Tracking your time and managing work with Pomodoro can boost your productivity, help stay focused, and reach goals faster and more effectively.

Do you think the Pomodoro technique is better than traditional time tracking? Let us know in the comment section below!