Learning Challenge: The Pomodoro Technique
This week I decided to learn more about The Pomodoro Technique from the Growth Mindset challenges. This technique is used to help block time spent working on a task or project.
First you pick your project. I decided that I would use this technique for getting several assignments done for this class.
Next, you set a timer for 25 minutes. The technique got the name from the Italian word, pomodoro, for 'tomato' because you traditionally do this technique with a tomato shaped timer. I don't have one, so I just used the timer feature on Google. (You can find my Tech Tip here for explaining how to use this feature).
After you set the timer, you work on the task uninterrupted until the timer goes off. When you here the timer go off, you put a check mark on your page to mark that one section has passed. (I put a sticky note on my laptop and marked this since all of my work was online today)
Now, you take a short break, maybe refresh your coffee, respond to some texts, or eat a quick snack, before you get back to the task and set the timer for another 25 minutes.
Repeat these steps until you've made 4 check marks showing that you've completed the cycle four times.
Now, it's time for a longer break. Take a step away from your work for about a half hour. Load up an episode of FRIENDS or go for a quick run. (I have been at the lake this weekend with my boyfriend's family, so I spent most of my breaks chatting with them or watching the storm rollover the water.)
Once your break is over, sit back at your task and start your next round of Pomodoros.
I think this was an amazing way to crack down on getting a big task or lots of small tasks done. I needed to get a lot of these projects done for this class today, and this technique helped me make it happen. I tend to do my work with a timer set anyways, but usually I use it to break up my time so it's spent on all of my subjects. I loved using this technique to make sure I stayed focused on just one class.
Update: Someone commented about finding it hard to avoid distractions from their phone, and I have a neat trick I use for that, as well.
I am also really bad about letting my phone distract me. One awesome thing I do to get me in the habit of not touching my phone while working is Pocket Points. It's an app that gives you points for keeping your phone locked while on campus. These points can be redeemed for deals at clothing stores, restaurants, and even some online stores. You should really check it out. As long as you are on campus, the app is open and running, but your screen is turned off, you earn points! I work a lot in the library or the Union, so it's really awesome getting rewarded for doing homework and going to class. (Bonus if you work on campus, too!)
First you pick your project. I decided that I would use this technique for getting several assignments done for this class.
Next, you set a timer for 25 minutes. The technique got the name from the Italian word, pomodoro, for 'tomato' because you traditionally do this technique with a tomato shaped timer. I don't have one, so I just used the timer feature on Google. (You can find my Tech Tip here for explaining how to use this feature).
After you set the timer, you work on the task uninterrupted until the timer goes off. When you here the timer go off, you put a check mark on your page to mark that one section has passed. (I put a sticky note on my laptop and marked this since all of my work was online today)
Now, you take a short break, maybe refresh your coffee, respond to some texts, or eat a quick snack, before you get back to the task and set the timer for another 25 minutes.
Repeat these steps until you've made 4 check marks showing that you've completed the cycle four times.
Now, it's time for a longer break. Take a step away from your work for about a half hour. Load up an episode of FRIENDS or go for a quick run. (I have been at the lake this weekend with my boyfriend's family, so I spent most of my breaks chatting with them or watching the storm rollover the water.)
Once your break is over, sit back at your task and start your next round of Pomodoros.
I think this was an amazing way to crack down on getting a big task or lots of small tasks done. I needed to get a lot of these projects done for this class today, and this technique helped me make it happen. I tend to do my work with a timer set anyways, but usually I use it to break up my time so it's spent on all of my subjects. I loved using this technique to make sure I stayed focused on just one class.
Update: Someone commented about finding it hard to avoid distractions from their phone, and I have a neat trick I use for that, as well.
I am also really bad about letting my phone distract me. One awesome thing I do to get me in the habit of not touching my phone while working is Pocket Points. It's an app that gives you points for keeping your phone locked while on campus. These points can be redeemed for deals at clothing stores, restaurants, and even some online stores. You should really check it out. As long as you are on campus, the app is open and running, but your screen is turned off, you earn points! I work a lot in the library or the Union, so it's really awesome getting rewarded for doing homework and going to class. (Bonus if you work on campus, too!)
Hi Caitlyn!
ReplyDeleteI had already commented on your introduction so I was browsing around and found this post! Wow! This is actually a cool way to organize your time. I have trouble parsing my work out and tend to get overwhelmed when I have many items on my plate. This strategy seems to lessen the stress while incorporating some well deserved breaks! Have you tried this out and if so, how well did it work?
Hi Caitlyn!
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate you sharing this idea - I think it is a great way to get assignments done. I typically always need to take a break when I work on my schoolwork, because it can get incredibly long sometimes. I like using a timer because it makes sure you are staying on track. One of my biggest distractions when I work on homework online is my phone. So I definitely find it helpful to put my phone away and set a timer - I am much more productive that way.
I put a little update at the end of the post with a neat trick for not letting your phone distract you. You should check it out!
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