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What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. You work in focused 25-minute sessions (called "pomodoros"), then take a 5-minute break. After completing four pomodoros, take a longer 15-minute break. The name comes from the tomato-shaped kitchen timer Cirillo used as a university student.
Why Does 25 Minutes Work So Well?
25 minutes is short enough that starting feels manageable — no more procrastinating. But it is long enough to make real progress on a task. The forced breaks prevent mental fatigue and help you maintain consistent concentration over a full work day. Researchers have found that regular breaks actually improve focus rather than disrupting it.
How to Use the Pomodoro Timer
Decide on the task you want to work on. Click "Start Focus Session" and work with full concentration until the alarm sounds. When the break timer starts, step away from your screen — stretch, get water, rest your eyes. After the break ends, immediately start your next work session. Track your completed pomodoros to build momentum.
Other Popular Timers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Pomodoro timer?
A Pomodoro timer is a 25-minute countdown used for the Pomodoro Technique — a productivity method where you work in focused intervals separated by short breaks. This timer automatically cycles between 25-minute work sessions and 5-minute breaks.
Why is a Pomodoro 25 minutes?
Francesco Cirillo settled on 25 minutes after experimenting with different intervals. It is long enough to accomplish meaningful work and short enough to maintain intense focus. The breaks prevent burnout over the course of a full day.
How many Pomodoros should I do per day?
Most people complete 8–12 pomodoros in a focused workday. Beginners often start with 4–6 and build up. Track your daily count to spot patterns in your most productive hours.
Can I change the Pomodoro interval?
Traditional Pomodoro is 25 minutes work / 5 minutes break. If you prefer a different rhythm, you can use the main timer page and set any duration you like. Some people prefer 50/10 or 90/20 for deeper work.
Will the timer keep running if I switch tabs?
Yes. The timer runs in the background and your browser tab title shows the remaining time so you can glance at it without switching back.
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