I’m sure you must have heard about the Pomodoro Technique. If not, let me briefly explain it for you.
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo which is used by millions of people worldwide. In this technique, your work is broken down into 25-minute intervals with 5-minute breaks in between. After every four Pomodoros (work interval), take a longer break, preferably 15-30 minutes break.
Now that we know about this technique, another question arises. Is this technique meant for you? This is exactly what we are going to discuss today.
Effect on Mood.
This study was done to observe various effects of pre-determined breaks vs self-regulated breaks. It was found that taking pre-determined, systematic breaks during a study session had mood benefits. It also had efficiency benefits i.e. similar task completion in shorter time. Students studied for longer time periods when taking self-regulated breaks, but this was associated with higher levels of fatigue and distractedness. I think only my man Pomodoro can handle my mood swings.
Memory Retention.
This study shows that Pomodoro Technique had no significant effect on memory retention of students who used it. It is essential to note that these findings may be influenced by factors such as time restrictions and other variables faced by both researchers and participants. Can’t do anything about my memory-span-of-a-goldfish issue, it seems.
Improvement in writing skills.
This study shows that the Pomodoro technique was beneficial in assisting the students in improving their writing skills. However, the Pomodoro Technique was used in this study to teach students rather than students using this method for self-study purposes. As a writer I know what I’m going to do now!
Procrastination.
I’ve read another study which shows that the Pomodoro technique is more effective in reducing procrastination behavior. When time binds you then you sure will have to do your work. But it can also create problems with motivation. Sometimes taking systematic breaks break the ‘flow’. That means it suddenly stops the state of high concentration and motivation that the student was experiencing. Personally, this is the reason I use Pomodoro.
Now that you know the pros and cons of this technique, you can decide whether this technique is for you or not. I personally use this technique during exam phase when I have to study for long periods of time with higher efficiency. Other than that, I don’t use Pomodoro much as it breaks my flow sometimes when I’m highly focused on my work. Hope this information helps you!
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