Time management and productivity are issues for many people, especially. in this modern world of technology. We may attempt to concentrate on our work but technology and activities that seem more interesting often distract us from the task at hand. Thus, the Pomodoro time management system is designed to help those who struggle with procrastination by providing a ratio between work and break times. This allows you to work more efficiently while not burning yourself out (Scroggs). The best thing about the Pomodoro methods are that it has no fixed rules, so people can experiment to see which one works the best for them–here are some variations:
Although this article doesn't list every single Pomodoro Technique, as long as you’re aware of the formula:
shorter work time = short break (make sure to give yourself a longer break after 4+ sets)
longer work time = longer break
The purpose of the animedoro method, “desktime” variation, and ultradian rhythms are to increase the incentive of having a longer break by doing more work immediately rather than having to wait to complete 4 sets of the traditional Pomodoro method for your long break. This is why some people dislike the standard Pomodoro method because they don't have the motivation to study for 25 minutes only to take a 5-minute break (Chen). The goal of your break is to help your brain relax and to re-energize yourself for the next set of Pomodoro. Therefore, you might have to test out the different styles of Pomodoro to find the right one for you because taking a good break and working again allows you to remain efficient and productive without even realizing it. This also means that you don't have to stick to one Pomodoro method; you can switch between them depending on your schedule, location, and attention span (Scroggs).
As a student-athlete who has a busy schedule, I am still learning how to balance my time and stop procrastinating. The animedoro method works best for me because it allows me to complete my assignments while also getting the chance to catch up on my favorite shows. I'm more relaxed because of how I spend my break, and I know I'll be productive when it's time to go back to work because I want to watch the next episode.
So, if you struggle with time management and procrastination, the Pomodoro technique is recommended by thousands of students, workers, researchers, and even athletes. It is a restorative studying method that helps you get work done efficiently. Its popularity stems from the fact that it is so adaptable that it can fit into any busy schedule.
References
Chen, John. “How I Studied 600 hrs + Watched 300 hrs of Anime in 4 Months (The ULTIMATE Study Technique).” YouTube, 11 January 2021, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUjGZJIgse0&t=176s. Accessed 27 September 2022.
Metz, Tim. “Pomodoro Techniques and Other Work Rhythms - Which One Suits You?” Timmetz.medium, Medium, 10 February 2015, https://timmetz.medium.com/pomodoro-technique-and-other-work-rhythms-which-one-suits-you-34c2d05fe46e. Accessed 27 September 2022.
Scroggs, Laura. “The Pomodoro Technique — Why It Works & How To Do It.” Todoist, https://todoist.com/productivity-methods/pomodoro-technique. Accessed 14 September 2022.
