How to study effectively: the Pomodoro technique

April 19, 2017

• Effective Revision

Students at the most demanding universities often realise that at their level, succeeding is neither about being intelligent, nor about getting down to work anymore: it is just as important to know how to study. Knowing the right techniques and being effective can save you a lot of time as well as your grades.

It is important to know that just like we all have different personalities, we all have different learning styles. As a result, just because a particular technique suits your friends, it doesn’t mean that you should force yourself to study in that manner as well, especially if you feel that you are not getting much work done.

In this new article series, we will introduce some popular studying techniques, tips and tricks which you might find useful. The one we present you today is the Pomodoro technique – a time management method named after a tomato-shaped kitchen timer!

Pomodoro is a special timing technique you can use to study more effectively by separating your work into 25-minute-long study sessions, separated by short breaks. The goal of this time management technique is to achieve full concentration during the 25-minute interval while relaxing during a short, usually 5-minute-long break. The technique aims to reduce the negative impact of external distractions. If confronted with one, write it down and get back after your pomodoro session ends.

In order for the method to be effective, you should decide on the tasks before you set the timer (preferably 25min). Work on this task until the timer rings. Write a check on a piece of paper, in order to mark a successfully completed pomodoro – this will give you a sense of progress and will motivate you as you go on with your work. Take a break of 3-5 minutes and then set your timer again. After every four pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes.

In addition to the short bursts of sharp focus, this technique also aids your overall productivity: it asks of you to create a ‘To Do Today’ list and prioritise, so that the most important tasks get done first. It also requires you to come up with the estimated time you will need to complete each task. This way you can both assess your productivity as well as push yourself to complete a task in a challengingly small amount of time.

You can either use a kitchen timer (which inspired the name Pomodoro, Italian for tomato) and a piece of paper or you can choose to use your smartphone and download one of the many productivity apps that are available nowadays. Look for “pomodoro technique” or “tomato timer” in your app store and you’ll surely find plenty!

Needing a little extra help before your exams? Contact us at Kings Tutors.