What it is
This technique is named after the Italian word for tomato and the small twist kitchen timers that also look like tomatoes. Research has shown that one's attention to studying or other deep work can drop off around the 25-30 minute mark (and even less for neurodivergent people). Pomodoro allows one to reset that curve and restore nearly optimal attention.
How to do it
When sitting down to do deep work, set a timer for 25 minutes, and work hard until it dings. If you find your mind wandering, remind yourself that you only have to work on this task for 25 minutes, and try to maintain your focus. When the timer is up, take a 5 minute break, engaging your mind with something significantly different. Don't just switch to another subject; go for a walk, phone a friend, watch some youtube. Then get back to work, repeating 4 cycles of this work/break pattern. After 4 cycles, take a longer break to engage in something rewarding, like a favorite tv show or a scoop of ice cream.
When to apply it
Any time that you have a significant amount of material that needs to be studied, absorbed or reviewed. Great for deep, focused work. Pair it with a Study lamp to increase effectiveness.
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