Glossary
What is Pomodoro Technique?
Short answer
The Pomodoro Technique is a time-management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. You work in 25-minute focused blocks ('pomodoros') separated by 5-minute breaks, with a longer break every four pomodoros.
Full definition
Pomodoro exploits a simple psychological lever: committing to just 25 minutes lowers the activation cost of starting. The technique pairs well with tools that enforce focus inside the block. A Pomodoro timer defines the block; a tool like IdleMac enforces it by alerting when you drift mid-session.
Examples
- 25 minutes of writing → 5-minute break → repeat.
- Four pomodoros (~2 hours) → 15-minute long break.
- Pomodoro + IdleMac: timer structures; IdleMac disciplines.