Use the Pomodoro Technique for Study and Writing Productivity

Do you struggle with procrastination? You’re not alone.

The Pomodoro Technique is a great way for students and faculty alike to beat procrastination and study, write, and research efficiently. I use it almost every day (in fact, I am using it as I write this).

I first learned about it searching for productivity tips online while writing my PhD thesis. Writing chapters of PhD seemed like an insurmountable task, and Pomodoro helped me break it down into manageable chunks.

I love Pomodoro because:

It’s super simple.
You only need a phone or computer to use it.
It really works!

How to Do a Pomodoro?

Step One

First, Identify your task or goal. For example:

✅”This morning I will finish reading two articles on my reading list for this week.”

✅”Today I will write the first 1000 words of my paper.”

✅”Before 5pm today I will finish organizing my data and be ready to start writing-up my results.”

Step Two

Set a timer for 25 minutes. You can use your phone (there are lots of Pomodoro apps for Apple and Android), a Pomodoro web page (I like www.pomofocus.io), or a an old-fashioned alarm clock.

Step Three

Start! Work consistently for 25 minutes. The relatively short time makes working on your task feel manageable, because you know a break is coming soon.

Step Four

Take a short break for five minutes. Set a timer to make sure you don’t go beyond the alotted time. Personally, I usually like to get up and walk around (it wakes me up) or do some light stretches, but you can also:

✅ Make a cup of coffee or tea

✅ Do five minutes of training or play with your pet

✅Tidy your work area (this is also useful for productivity in general)

✅Check the news or social media (but don’t get sucked into scrolling for more than 5 minutes!).

Step Five

Repeat steps 1-4 four times, then take a 15-30 minute break.

Don’t feel guilty about taking a longer break – tired brains are not productive brains, and the long break helps you reset and return refreshed and ready to re-start.

During this long break, get outside if you can. Natural light and physical movement makes us happier, helps us focus, and improves sleep (which is in turn helpful for productivity the following day).

I hope you find the Pomodoro method as useful as I do!

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