Use the Pomodoro Technique and Improve Work and Study Habits

The Pomodoro technique develops a laser-like focus for short periods of time. Do you get distracted on your tasks? Do you find that interruptions plague your focus? If so then the Pomodoro method is a simple way to improve your work and study habits.

The Pomodoro method is so simple.

If you want to be more efficient or improve the quality of your work then the Pomodoro Method could be for you. 

The Pomodoro method builds on a concept called "chunking your time" or "time-boxing".

It is simple time management technique that puts firewalls around your attention for 25 minutes. It is great for those people who want to develop a laser-like focus and increase their productivity quickly.

Using the Pomodoro Technique

1. Purchase a kitchen timer (also called a Pomodoro) or use this desktop application. Alternatively here is a physical timer that I use.

2. Identify the task that you want to do in this Pomodoro. If you have a to do list of tasks or a list of tasks on your time management software, then choose the tasks that you want to do and the Pomodoro periods you want to complete them in. A good tip is to use your prioritized task list so that you can get the most important tasks done first.

3. Set your timer (or Pomodoro) for 25 minutes.

4. Work on the task for 25 minutes. Focus on the task rather than the timer. When your 25 minutes finish then put the task down even if you think you need a few more minutes. You can continue the task in the next Pomodoro. If you finish the task in the Pomodoro period then review and perfect it until the Pomodoro finishes.

5. Take a 3-5 minute break. Make sure that you use this time to disengage from the work at hand. At a psychological level this quick burst of activity followed by a short rest maximizes your concentration levels and focuses your attention. The idea is that nothing should interrupt your Pomodoro - which in turn maximizes your concentration for that period.

6. For each 4 Pomodoros take a 15-20 minute break. This step is important as the Pomodoros are intense periods of activity and without an adequate rest period over the 2 hours (4 lots of 25 mins plus short breaks) you can start to flag. Take this opportunity to refuel and recharge your batteries.

So how do you exactly use this Pomodoro method? As an example, I use the it with my Achieve Planner software and organize the tasks that I want to complete that day in order of priority. I ensure that I do the most important things first that day so that I remain as productive as possible. With my list of tasks I start completing them one Pomodoro at a time. 

The Pomodoro technique is great for busting procrastination and also for those people with short attention spans or wanting an extra kick in focus for short periods of time. Because it focused me on one task until completed, this technique dramatically reduced my tendency to multitask.

If you liked the Pomodoro technique then you may also like:

• time management tools that leverage your time
• free time tracking software that can block certain sites for certain periods of time while you are doing a Pomodoro
• this article on the type of planner you want organize your tasks and objectives.