Pomodoro Timer
Focused work sessions with automatic breaks, the Pomodoro way.
A configurable Pomodoro Technique timer — alternating work sessions and short breaks, with a longer break after every few sessions, all switching automatically.
How a Pomodoro cycle works
With the default settings, one full cycle looks like this:
- Work for 25 minutes
- Short break for 5 minutes
- Repeat the work and short-break pair until you've finished 4 work sessions
- Take a long break of 15 minutes, then start again
One full cycle takes about 2 hours 10 minutes, including 1 hour 40 minutes of focused work.
Tips for better Pomodoros
- Choose one task before you press Start, and write it down.
- Remove distractions: silence notifications and close tabs you don't need for the task.
- Protect the session. If something unrelated comes to mind, jot it down and deal with it after the timer rings.
- Really rest on breaks: stand up, stretch, drink water or look out of a window instead of scrolling your phone.
- Track your count. Knowing a task took "6 pomodoros" helps you estimate similar work next time.
Other settings people use
| Style | Work | Short break | Long break |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | 25 min | 5 min | 15–30 min |
| Longer focus | 50 min | 10 min | 30 min |
| Getting started | 15 min | 5 min | 15 min |
Shorter sessions can help when a task feels hard to start; longer ones suit deep work like writing or coding once you're in the flow. Adjust the settings above until the rhythm feels sustainable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
A time-management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s: work in focused 25-minute intervals ("pomodoros") separated by short breaks, with a longer break after every four pomodoros.
Can I change the default times?
Yes — adjust the work, short break, and long break lengths, and how many work sessions happen before a long break.
Does it switch phases automatically?
Yes — when a phase ends, a sound plays and the timer automatically moves to the next phase (work → short break → work → ... → long break) and starts counting down.
Why is it called Pomodoro?
"Pomodoro" is Italian for tomato. Francesco Cirillo, who created the method as a university student, used a tomato-shaped kitchen timer.
Does the Pomodoro Technique work for studying?
Many students find it helpful because it breaks long study sessions into manageable blocks and builds in regular rest, which can make it easier to start and to keep going.