How to use the Pomodoro Timer
- Press Start (or the space bar) and work on one task until the chime.
- Take the short break. The next focus session can start automatically.
- After every four focus sessions you get a longer break. The dots show where you are in the cycle.
- Open Settings to change the times, and turn on notifications so you hear about it even in another tab.
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
Invented by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s and named after his tomato-shaped kitchen timer (pomodoro is Italian for tomato), the technique splits work into short, focused intervals. The fixed end time makes it easier to start, and regular breaks keep your mind fresh through a long day.
How to do it
- Pick one task.
- Work on it for 25 minutes without switching to email, chat or your phone.
- When the timer rings, take a 5-minute break: stand up, stretch, get water.
- After four pomodoros, take a 15–30 minute break.
Make it work for you
25/5 is a starting point, not a rule. Deep work like coding or writing often suits 50 minutes of focus and 10 minutes of break. Studying for exams might suit 30/5. If something distracting pops into your head, jot it down and get back to the task. Deal with it on your break.
Frequently asked questions
Will the timer keep running in another tab?
Yes. It's based on the clock, not on counting ticks, so it stays accurate even when your browser slows down background tabs. Turn on notifications to get an alert there.
Can I change the lengths?
Yes. Open <b>Settings</b> to set focus, short break and long break lengths, and how often long breaks come. Your settings are saved in your browser.
What does Skip do?
It ends the current session early and moves to the next one: a break after focus, or focus after a break.
Is my data saved?
Only your settings and today's session count, in your browser's local storage.