What is the Pomodoro Technique?
We’ve all had that feeling of sitting and staring at the same page for what seems like hours – nothing is going in, so to make up for that you sit there for even longer. The perpetual loop of unproductively!
Well don’t worry – there is a technique that will help you to work smarter, not for longer. Allow us to introduce you to the Pomodoro Technique – a revision hack that could help you transform the way you study.
Part of the beauty of the Pomodoro Technique is in its simplicity. It takes seconds to learn and is incredibly easy to put into practice. You can even modify it to your exact requirements if you need to.
But we are getting ahead of ourselves!
How does this technique work?
It is all about breaking up the time that you are studying into manageable chunks.
- First you set out your specific tasks.
- Then set a timer (normally for 25 minutes).
- After the timer goes off, you have a short break (5 minutes) to do whatever you like (just as long as it isn’t more revision).
These 5 minute intervals are referred to as pomodoros.
Some people use this time to check their phone, respond to messages, some make a cup of tea or coffee, some meditate, some do press-ups. Do whatever you need to do to switch off from your studies.
After a five minute break, you’re back in – refreshed and ready to concentrate. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can focus on after that short break, and how much you can achieve in that next block of 25 minutes!
Once you have repeated this four times, you take a longer break, usually around 25 minutes, which is perfect for a bit of lunch or an episode on Netflix to completely unwind, then get back into it.
Technique Summary
Although there are countless of study techniques out there, one that we adopt on our platform is: Sticky Learning.
Sticky Learning consists of retrieval practice and micro learning, where retrieval practice takes information from the student in order to build long term memory. Whereas, micro learning uses the process of activities such as quizzes and bite size videos to aid learning through visuals and interactivity.
The difference between Sticky Learning and the Pomodoro Technique is one boosts long term memory and the other focuses on concentration or high productivity, you could even use them both at the same time! Utilising a multitude of learning techniques can assist in getting you to your exam goal. However, it’s up to you and what you are looking to improve on!
What are the benefits?
The biggest advantage of the Pomodoro Technique is that it gives you better concentration levels and extra focus. Almost anybody can focus on something for 25 minutes, and knowing that you are never far away from a break means that you can ignore everything else in the world.
What if my phone distracts me?
Being a GCSE student and a teenager, it’s no doubt that your phone will go off while you’re studying You know that your next break is right around the corner, so it can wait until then.
Get the urge to check Instagram or Twitter? Nothing needs to break your concentration, stay focused!
It also helps you to plan your revision. Having set blocks of time you know which topics you can cover – spend two lots of 25 minutes on mock questions, then two lots on looking through your notes etc. Suddenly your time becomes so much more manageable.
Pomodoro Technique Benefits
- No distractions
- Higher intensity to your work
- Get more done in less time
- Easier to plan your revision
- Greater focus
- No more procrastination!
Get started with the Pomodoro Technique!
All you need is something to measure time, ideally with an alarm: a clock, a phone or even an oven would do the job! Just set a timer for 25 minutes and you’re away!
If constantly setting timers seems a bit too high maintenance for you – don’t worry. You can download a free app that sets this all up automatically for you – even giving you the extended break after 4 sessions. It really couldn’t be easier.
So what are you waiting for? Give the Pomodoro Technique a try and watch your productivity flourish.
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