Benefits of Pomodoro Technique

Do you find yourself getting easily distracted while studying? Is it difficult to put your phone down, or summon the motivation to begin your task? If so, the pomodoro technique might be worth a try! 

The pomodoro technique is a time management method that incorporates set breaks based on the time you work. The typical splits include a five minute break for every twenty five minutes working, or a ten minute break for every fifty minutes working (Gupta, 2025). Depending on your goals or the length of the task at hand, you can do multiple rounds, taking larger breaks every four blocks you complete. 

The pomodoro technique has been around for decades, and it is utilized by people of all professions. It helps to break down tasks into more manageable chunks. It’s much easier to do twenty minutes of work instead of attacking everything at once. Knowing that a break is coming up soon can also help motivate you to stay focused on your difficult studies. Additionally, incorporating breaks into your work schedule gives you instant gratification for your hard work. 

Since the only real qualifications of the technique is a timer, you can just utilize your phone or computer app. Or, you can follow along with a Youtube video that has set alarms. There are also apps that lock all other applications during your work period, only letting you open them during the break periods. My personal favorite is the app Flora, a free version of the timer is available on the application store. 

Though the technique is simple, the benefits are numerous. By implementing a set schedule, it forces you to stay focused on the task at hand during the time allotted. No scrolling through Tiktok while watching videos, no texting while answering questions; none of that is permitted during the work period. Reducing distractions helps to reduce procrastination, as there's nothing in the way of you starting your assignment. The minutes of work are spent accomplishing your task, and the breaks give you an opportunity to relax. Once the timer goes off, it truly feels like a reward! You earned that break through your hard work, and now you have the opportunity to spend your time any way that you want to. 

Long term, this helps to create discipline and improve work ethic. Studies show that using this technique helps to increase efficiency by holding yourself accountable and improve time management skills (Lamay, 2021). In addition, work life balance is increased through the separation of work from play. This helps to reduce stress and increase overall quality of life.

Jade McNulty

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, OMS III

References:

1. https://flora.appfinca.com/en/

2. https://lifeat.io/blog/benefits-of-using-the-pomodoro-technique

3. https://www.verywellmind.com/pomodoro-technique-history-steps-benefits-and-drawbacks-6892111#:~:text=Encourages%20focused%20work:%20Demarcating%20a%20period%20of,dishwasher%2C%20or%20switching%20to%20a%20different%20task.&text=It%20can%20help%20you%20use%20your%20time%20more%20efficiently%20and%20accomplish%20your%20goals.

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