You might be familiar with the term “Pomodoro” or at least “Pomodoro timer,” thanks to the countless YouTube videos featuring Lofi beats and study routines filmed at meticulously arranged, aesthetically pleasing desks. But what exactly is the Pomodoro technique, and why has it become a staple within the study community? 

The Pomodoro technique was created in the 1980s by an Italian university student named Francesco Cirillo to aid in time management. “Pomodoro” comes from the Italian word for “tomato,” which, in this case, refers to the iconic tomato-shaped timer found commonly in kitchens. Cirillo used this timer to break his work into 25-minute intervals, followed by a 5-minute break. 

A tomato-shaped or physical timer is no longer necessary; digital Pomodoro timers are widely available online, making it easier to adjust the original 25-minute work and 5-minute break structure to fit anyone’s schedule or preference. 

Now that you have a brief overview of the method and its history, the real question is whether this method even works, and the short answer is yes. Specifically, this method is effective because it helps you focus on one task at a time, balance work and rest, and take that crucial first step. 

When you have a huge to-do list, the last thing you want to do is try to tackle it all at once. Trying to do multiple tasks simultaneously can be too much for your brain to handle, making it extremely easy to make mistakes and eventually burn out. Instead, focusing on one task at a time allows your brain to utilize its resources and energy to complete something well. The Pomodoro technique is perfect for this, as the timer element of the method encourages your brain to stay focused on a specific task instead of drifting away to a more exciting task. 

Everyone has heard “work-life balance” at least once, but honestly, saying this is much easier said than done. If, once again, you have a lot on your plate, it is easy to try to push yourself to working with no breaks or rewards. However, according to Cornell Health, taking purpuseful breaks from studying increases your energy, focus, and productivity since it allows you to refresh your brain and body. The Pomodoro technique directly supports this by encouraging regular focused work and rest intervals. 

Around 20% of adults could be classified as “chronic procrastinators,” meaning they struggle to initiate tasks. Procrastinating can negatively impact your mental health, productivity, and overall well-being and for this reason, methods like Pomodoro could be an extremely easy fix. By committing to setting a timer, you are allowing yourself to start on something and take the first step towards finishing a task. 

I hope that next time you use this method, it helps you manage time, reduce procrastination, and maintain balance between work and rest. Happy studying!