The Pomodoro technique is a widely recognized way of increasing productivity by working in intervals. In simple terms, the technique divides one’s working hours throughout the day into 25-minute increments with a 5-minute break after each. After a series of 3 to 4 25-minute work sprees, the rest time may be increased to 15-20 minutes. Each interval in this time-saving technique is called a ‘Pomodoro’. The technique is so named because it was invented by an Italian author in the late 1980s with a kitchen timer shaped like a tomato!
The original technique of Pomodoro consists of 6 steps:
- Decide the task: Decide a task, or a list of tasks, to complete within the duration of a work day. It is a better habit to list down things to do in a notebook rather than on your phone.
- Set the Pomodoro: Set an interval that suits you and your schedule. Just keep in mind that it is not too long or too short, otherwise, it defeats the purpose.
- Start working: As soon as you start the timer, get on with finishing the task you set for yourself. Don’t pressurize yourself, but be in the zone of productivity for one task at a time.
- Set break: Allocate yourself a break that you feel is sufficient. Typically the break should be around 5-10 minutes long. Take deep breaths, stretch your legs, have a snack, and rejuvenate yourself.
- Repeat: Repeat the same process till you are done with three Pomodoros or intervals.
- Longer break: After you have completed your 4th work interval, take a longer break, around 20-30 minutes. Relax and recollect yourself in the given time, and then repeat from Step 2.
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