The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that divides work into 25-minute blocks of total concentration (pomodoros) separated by short 5-minute breaks. It reduces resistance to starting — the hardest part — limits the effect of interruptions, generates immediate progress feedback, and prevents fatigue from overextension.
Concept origin
Francesco Cirillo developed it in the late 1980s and published it in his book "The Pomodoro Technique" (2006). The name comes from the tomato-shaped kitchen timer (pomodoro in Italian) he used. It has no direct academic research base, but embodies validated principles: work in chunks, artificial deadlines, and attention management.
Therapeutic approach
Protocol: 1) Choose one task. 2) Set timer for 25 minutes. 3) Work without interruptions until it sounds. 4) Take a 5-minute break. 5) Every 4 pomodoros, take a long break of 15-30 minutes. The most effective variant adjusts the block to personal concentration level (some prefer 50/10).
Related concepts
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