About the Pomodoro Technique

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.

The technique is named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer that Cirillo used as a university student. ("Pomodoro" is Italian for "tomato".)

How to Use Focus25

1. Choose a task you want to work on
2. Start the timer (default 25 minutes)
3. Work on the task until the timer rings
4. Take a short break (5 minutes)
5. After 4 pomodoros, take a longer break (15-30 minutes)

Best Practices

• Eliminate distractions during your work sessions
• If a distraction pops up, write it down and return to it later
• Use breaks effectively - stand up, stretch, hydrate
• Don't skip breaks - they're essential for maintaining focus
• Adjust timing to find what works best for you
• Track your pomodoros to understand your productivity patterns

Why It Works

The Pomodoro Technique works because it:

• Reduces mental fatigue by breaking work into manageable chunks
• Improves focus by creating a sense of urgency
• Prevents burnout through regular breaks
• Provides measurable progress with completed pomodoros
• Builds sustainable work habits over time

Features of Focus25

• Customizable timers for work sessions and breaks
• Visual progress tracking with circular timer display
• Task list integration to organize your work
• Statistics tracking to monitor your productivity
• Keyboard shortcuts for quick control
• Audio notifications with customizable sounds
• Browser notifications even when tab is inactive
• 100% private - all data stays on your device