What is the Pomodoro technique?

The Pomodoro technique is a way of working in short, timed rounds. You work on one task for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and after four rounds take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. It was developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s and is named after a tomato-shaped kitchen timer (“pomodoro” is Italian for tomato).

Why people like it

• A short round is easy to start. “Just 25 minutes” feels manageable when a whole task doesn’t.
• Breaks are built in. Regular breaks help you keep going without burning out.
• It makes time visible. A countdown shows exactly how much of the round is left.

Adjusting it

The 25/5 rhythm is a starting point, not a rule. Many people prefer longer rounds (45 or 50 minutes) for deep work, or shorter ones (10–15 minutes) on hard days. With ADHD, it can help to start with short rounds and lengthen them once you’re moving. If you’re in the flow when the timer rings, it’s fine to keep going.

How to try it

1. Choose one task.
2. Write the very first step.
3. Set a timer and work only on that task until it rings.
4. Take a real break: stand up, drink water, look away from the screen.

In Thendoo: start a focus session and choose Pomodoro. You can set the work and break lengths and the number of rounds, add five minutes or skip a break, and the time counts toward the task.