Pomodoro

FAQ

Questions fréquentes

What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It uses a timer to break work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks.
How do I use this app?
Select a task to work on. Start the timer (25 minutes). Work on the task until the timer rings. Take a short break (5 minutes). Every 4 pomodoros, take a longer break.
Can I customize the timer?
Yes, you can adjust the focus, short break, and long break durations in the settings menu.
How long should a Pomodoro break be?
The standard Pomodoro break is 5 minutes after each 25-minute work session. After completing four pomodoros (about 2 hours), take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. These durations are based on research showing that short, frequent breaks are more effective than longer, infrequent ones for maintaining focus and preventing mental fatigue.
What if 25 minutes doesn't work for me?
The 25-minute duration is a starting point, not a rule. Many people adapt the technique to their needs. For deep creative work, try 50-minute sessions with 10-minute breaks. For tasks requiring high urgency or variety, try 15-minute sprints. The key principle—focused work intervals followed by rest—remains the same regardless of the specific durations you choose.
Can I use Pomodoro for studying?
Absolutely—in fact, the technique was originally developed for studying. Research shows it's particularly effective for learning because the breaks allow your brain to consolidate new information through neural replay. Students consistently report better retention and less burnout when using Pomodoro compared to marathon study sessions.
What should I do during Pomodoro breaks?
The best break activities are physical and disconnected from your work: stretching, walking, getting water, looking out a window, or doing light exercises. Avoid checking email or social media, as these can extend your break time and make it harder to refocus. The goal is to give your brain a genuine rest before the next focused session.
How many Pomodoros should I do per day?
Most people can sustain 8-12 quality pomodoros per day (approximately 3-5 hours of deep focused work). This might seem low compared to an 8-hour workday, but remember: these are hours of genuine, high-quality focus—not the half-focused work most people do. Start with 4-6 pomodoros and gradually increase as you build your focus stamina.
Does the Pomodoro technique work for people with ADHD?
Yes, many people with ADHD find the Pomodoro technique particularly helpful. The external timer provides structure and accountability that can be difficult to self-generate. The short 25-minute commitment feels less overwhelming than facing hours of work, and the frequent breaks prevent hyperfocus burnout. Some ADHD users prefer even shorter intervals (15-20 minutes) to match their attention patterns.
What if I finish my task before the Pomodoro ends?
Use the remaining time for 'overlearning'—review what you just completed, refine your work, or start preparing for the next task. You can also use extra time to organize notes, clear small administrative tasks, or simply reflect on your progress. Never end a Pomodoro early; the full interval helps build the discipline that makes the technique effective.
Can I combine Pomodoro with other productivity methods?
Absolutely—Pomodoro pairs excellently with other systems. Use it with time blocking to schedule focused work periods in your calendar. Combine it with Getting Things Done (GTD) by selecting your 'next action' before each Pomodoro. It also works well with the Eisenhower Matrix: tackle your important/urgent tasks during your peak energy Pomodoros.
Is the Pomodoro technique effective for remote work?
Remote workers often benefit even more from Pomodoro than office workers. Working from home brings unique distractions—household chores, family interruptions, the temptation to check personal devices. The timer creates artificial boundaries that replace the structure of a physical office. Many remote workers also use Pomodoro to communicate availability to family members: 'I'm in a Pomodoro, I'll be free in 15 minutes.'
Why is it called the Pomodoro technique?
'Pomodoro' is Italian for 'tomato.' Creator Francesco Cirillo named the method after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer he used as a university student in the 1980s. The playful name stuck, and each 25-minute work interval is still called a 'pomodoro' in honor of that original timer.
What happens if I get interrupted during a Pomodoro?
If interrupted, you have two options: either end the Pomodoro and start fresh later, or quickly handle the interruption and resume. For internal distractions (random thoughts), jot them down and return to work. For external interruptions, use the 'inform, negotiate, call back' strategy: tell the person you're busy, negotiate a time to reconnect, and follow up during your break.
Is the Pomodoro technique good for creative work?
Yes, but with some adaptation. Creative work often benefits from longer focus periods, so many creatives use 45-50 minute pomodoros instead of 25. The technique helps overcome the initial resistance to starting creative tasks and prevents perfectionism from stalling progress. If you hit a flow state, it's okay to extend a session—just make sure to take a proper break afterward.
Should I use a physical timer or an app?
Both work well, but each has advantages. Physical timers create a tangible commitment and eliminate the temptation to check your phone. Apps offer tracking features, statistics, and customization options. Many users start with an app for convenience, then switch to a physical timer to reduce digital distractions. The best timer is the one you'll actually use consistently.
How do I stay motivated to keep using Pomodoro?
Track your completed pomodoros to visualize progress—seeing a growing count is highly motivating. Set daily goals (e.g., 8 pomodoros) and celebrate when you hit them. Pair the technique with rewards: after completing a challenging task, treat yourself during the long break. Join online communities of Pomodoro users to share experiences and stay accountable.
Can I use Pomodoro in a noisy environment?
Yes, but you may need additional tools. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can block distractions. Many people find that listening to white noise, brown noise, or instrumental music helps maintain focus in noisy settings. You can also use the Pomodoro breaks strategically—save tasks requiring deep concentration for quieter times, and use noisy periods for less demanding work.
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Settings

25
5
15
4
Session Cycle
Auto Start Breaks
Auto Start Pomodoros
Alarm
Start pomodoro
End pomodoro
Total
Focus1h 40m
Short Break0h 15m
Long Break0h 45m
Total2h 40m

Tasks

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Ambiance

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Select a relaxing sound to help you concentrate:
Whispering Woods
Calm forest atmosphere with gentle rustling leaves and soft wind
Raining Forest
The soothing sound of rain falling on leaves
Ocean Focus
Relaxing ocean waves and sea breeze sounds
Winding Stream
The gentle murmur of a steady stream
Golden Hour Coast
A calming beach atmosphere at sunset
Gentle Shady Flow
The tranquil sound of a shaded brook
Deep Emerald Jungle
Immersive forest sounds with birds sound
Forest Sanctuary
A dense, peaceful temperate forest atmosphere
Filtered Light Above
Nature echoes filtered through the treetops
Azure Current
The constant flow of a small river
Tropical Drift
A gentle, rhythmic jungle ambience
Peaceful Forest
The calming sounds of a tranquil forest
Rainforest
The gentle sound of a rainforest
Tropical Current
The gentle sound of a tropical current
Pick multiple sounds and adjust the volume
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Water

🐦

Birds

☕

Morning cafe

🫧

Air Bubbles

🍽️

Lunchtime

❄️

Ice Lake

🌅

Birds at Dawn

🎓

University Café

⛈️

Storm

🌲

Loud Forest

🌙

Night Forest

🎶

Bird singing

🌄

Dawn Forest

🦉

Morning Owl

📻

White Noise

🌬️

Heavy wind

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The Pomodoro Technique: The Secret to Effortless Productivity

Developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 80s, this method turns time into a valuable ally rather than an anxiety-inducing enemy. The principle is formidable in its simplicity: break work into intervals of intense focus, called 'Pomodoros', separated by short breaks. This rhythmic structure keeps the mind fresh, fights mental fatigue, and eliminates procrastination.

Define the Task

Choose a clear and achievable goal.

Step 1

Set the Timer

Set your timer for 25 minutes.

Step 2

Intense Focus

Work without any distraction until the bell rings.

Step 3

Short Break

Take 5 minutes to breathe and move.

Step 4

Long Break

After 4 cycles, rest for 15 to 30 minutes.

Step 5
ADHD & Focus Friendly

ADHD & Procrastination: Why Pomodoro is Your Secret Weapon

For minds that wander or struggle to start, the Pomodoro method is a game-changer. It replaces the intimidating mountain of work with small, easy-to-climb hills. By structuring time, it offers a reassuring framework that channels mental energy.

External Brain

The timer acts as an external executive function, constantly reminding your brain to stay on task.

Dopamine Loop

Frequent breaks and completing cycles provide micro-rewards that keep motivation high.

Lower Barrier

Committing to 25 minutes is far less scary than having to 'finish the project'. It is the antidote to paralysis.

The Science of Sound: Music, White Noise, or Silence?

Your auditory environment dictates your cognitive performance. What should you listen to maximize your focus? The answer depends on the task and your brain.

Absolute Silence

Ideal for complex learning and solving difficult problems. The brain needs all its resources.

Instrumental Music

Perfect for repetitive or creative tasks. Prefer Lo-Fi, Classical, or Ambient. Never lyrics!

White Noise

The ultimate weapon against noisy environments. It creates a uniform sound wall that masks sudden distractions.

Pomodoro Timer with Ambient Sounds | Deep Work & Study