Pomodoro - The Interval Method
In this new series we would like to introduce you to learning methods that you can use to prepare more effectively for your school work or final exams. Our selected methods are not just those that exist in theory, but have been thoroughly tested by us in practice. So read along carefully, maybe one or two methods will help you get through your high school exams with ease.
Pomodoro – Italian for tomato?
Granted, Pomodoro really means tomato in Italian. This also explains the constant tomato logos in the tools that make Pomodoro tracking easier (but more on that later). The tomato has nothing to do with learning per se, but the technique's name is actually based on a tomato-shaped kitchen clock. Francesco Cirillo created the Pomodoro technique in the 80s because he was fascinated by his tomato kitchen timer (the name probably had a sense of humor)
The technology in theory
The Pomodoro Technique basically consists of the principle of divided time intervals. The most common method here is as follows
3 intervals :
- 50 minutes of study/work
- 10 minute break
then takes place
1 interval:
- 50 minutes of study/work
- 30 minute break
The point of the whole method is to have several smaller breaks, followed by a large one after a certain number of intervals.
The small breaks after a learning period that is shorter than other learning methods have the psychological effect that you use the 50 minutes of learning effectively and in a focused manner, because you know that the next break cannot be far away. You then use the 10 minute break to look at your smartphone, ventilate or get some exercise. After a few intervals, there is a longer break for a meal or an episode of your favorite series on Netflix 😉
This is how you do it right!
- Set your interval time. 50 minutes is just the classic method
- Set your break time. 10 minutes is just the classic method. However, the break in the normal intervals should not be more than 20% of the learning time, otherwise you will lose your flow.
- Decide after how many intervals you will take your big break. 3 intervals is just the classic method.
- During the learning period you should… learn! Put away your smartphone, turn off the TV and if you're working on your laptop, be sure to turn off your notifications. Full focus, then the break tastes even better.
Pomodoro is the best way to learn from your own experience. In my personal experience, intensive learning times followed by small, oxygen-rich breaks are the best mix.
But convince yourself!
PS: There are countless apps and browser applications that let you set the intervals yourself and remind you of your study or break time with a gong.
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In any case, we wish you all the best for your future!
Your LYTD® team
