How the Pomodoro Method Can Up Your Student’s Productivity

Imagine your student has the whole afternoon to complete homework and study for an upcoming exam, yet they struggle to initiate work and sustain attention. The hours pass and they have made little progress. Limited time isn’t the issue in this instance. It's the question of how to structure that time that makes being productive challenging for many students. The Pomodoro Method is one technique that can help students break up their work and their time in a way that supports initiation and helps them maintain momentum as they work.

What is the Pomodoro Method?

The Pomodoro Method is incredibly simple which makes it even more impactful! It doesn’t rely on technology and can easily be adjusted to each student’s needs. Here is how it works:

• Step 1: Create a list of work to be completed.
• Step 2: Set a timer for 25 mins.
• Step 3: Work on a task from the list.
• Step 4: When the timer goes off, take a 5-10 min break.
• Step 5: REPEAT!

After four cycles, take a longer break and return to step 2. The University of Arizona says of the Pomodoro Method, "If you are having trouble getting started with a project or task, you can use it to build momentum. You may find that once you get started, after two or three pomodoros, you don't want to keep taking breaks. " There are many Pomodoro timers available online that students can use for free.

Why this Method is Effective

Students have an easier time convincing themselves to get started when they “only” have to focus for 25 mins AND when the tasks they are working on are clearly defined. It’s like telling yourself you will run for half a mile, then one more half mile, and then another. Eventually, you will have run the X number of miles you set out to run by shorter term goals that helped you reach the finish line. The task (or mileage) feels far less overwhelming if broken into smaller chunks.