The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980s. He was looking to develop a method that provides a structured way to manage your time. The name comes from the tomato timer that Cirillo used!
Many PhD researchers find the method really useful as it encourages you to break down work into focused intervals (typically 25 minutes), called Pomodoros, followed by a short 5-minute break. The ‘classic’ structure is to complete four Pomodoros and then take a longer 15-30 minute break.
Some people like to work in longer blocks – up to 50 mins – and some shorter! It’s important to experiment and find the sequences that suit you.
You might want to use the method everyday or you might use it at particular moments – e.g. when you are editing a chapter.
For PhD researchers, this technique can help:
- Maintain focus during research and writing.
- Prevent burnout by incorporating regular breaks.
- Increase productivity by working in structured sprints.
- Overcome procrastination by making large tasks more manageable.