What Is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. The technique uses a timer to break work into focused intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks.
The name "Pomodoro" (Italian for "tomato") comes from the tomato-shaped kitchen timer that Cirillo used as a university student. What started as a simple personal productivity hack has become one of the most popular time management methods worldwide.
The genius of the Pomodoro Technique lies in its simplicity: by committing to just 25 minutes of focused work, you overcome procrastination and enter a state of flow. The frequent breaks prevent burnout and keep your mind fresh.
How It Works
Choose a Task
Pick a single task from your list. Focus on one thing at a time.
Set Timer for 25 Minutes
Start the Pomodoro timer. Commit to working without interruption until it rings.
Work Until Timer Rings
Dive into focused work. If a distraction pops up, write it down and get back to the task.
Take a 5-Minute Break
Step away from your work. Stretch, grab water, or just breathe. No screens!
After 4 Pomodoros, Take Longer Break
Every 4 Pomodoros (about 2 hours), take a 15-30 minute break to recharge.
Why Pomodoro Works
Combats Mental Fatigue
Regular breaks prevent burnout and keep your mind fresh throughout the day
Improves Focus
25 minutes is short enough to stay laser-focused without getting distracted
Tracks Productivity
Count completed Pomodoros to measure your actual focused work time
Reduces Procrastination
Committing to just 25 minutes makes starting intimidating tasks easier
Builds Momentum
Each completed Pomodoro is a small win that motivates you to keep going
Time Awareness
Become conscious of how you spend time and estimate tasks more accurately
How Boost Supercharges Pomodoro
Boost takes the classic Pomodoro Technique and adds smart features that traditional timers can't match:
🎯 Example Workflow in Boost:
- 1. Add "Write quarterly report" to your task list
- 2. Click "Start Focus" from Matrix or Board view
- 3. Timer auto-starts, task moves to "Doing" status
- 4. Complete Pomodoro, choose "Still Working" or "Task Complete"
- 5. See your win logged in the Momentum section with streak badges
Best Practices & Tips
✅ Do
- •Pick ONE task before starting the timer
- •Eliminate all distractions (phone on silent, close email)
- •Respect the break - step away from your desk
- •Track interruptions on paper, handle them later
- •Celebrate small wins after each Pomodoro
- •Use a physical timer or dedicated app
❌ Don't
- •Check social media 'just for a second'
- •Skip breaks to 'power through' work
- •Work on multiple tasks in one Pomodoro
- •Let interruptions break your flow
- •Feel guilty about taking breaks
- •Use Pomodoro for shallow, unfocused work