Imagine your student has the whole afternoon to get homework done and studying for an upcoming exam, yet they struggle to initiate work and sustain attention. The hours pass and they have made little progress. Limited time isn’t the issue in this instance – the question of how to structure that time is.
The Pomodoro Method is one technique that can help students break up their work and their time in a way that supports initiation and helps them maintain momentum as they work.
What is the Pomodoro Method?
The Pomodoro Method is incredibly simple which makes it even more impactful! It doesn’t rely on technology and can easily be adjusted to each student’s needs.
- Step 1: Create a list of work to be completed.
- Step 2: Set a timer for 25 mins.
- Step 3: Work on a task from the list.
- Step 4: When the timer goes off, take a 5-10 min break.
- Step 5: REPEAT!
After four cycles, take a longer break and return to step 2.
You can read more from the University of Arizona about the method here.
Why this Method is Effective
Students have an easier time convincing themselves to get started when they “only” have to focus for 25 mins AND when the tasks they are working on are clearly defined. It’s like telling yourself you will run for half a mile, then one more half mile, and then another. Eventually, you will have run the X number of miles you set out to run by shorter term goals that helped you reach the finish line. The task (or mileage) feels far less overwhelming if broken into smaller chunks.