Pomodoro Timer
Work in focused blocks with breaks in between. Start the timer, and it moves through focus time, short breaks and a long break on its own, with a sound at each change.
About this tool
Runs in this tab. Keep the tab open: some phones pause timers when the screen locks. The page title shows the time left, so you can see it from another tab.
The Pomodoro technique breaks work into focused blocks with short breaks between them, and a longer break after a few blocks. This timer runs the whole cycle for you: press Start, work until it rings, take the break, and it moves on to the next part on its own.
How to use the Pomodoro Timer
- Leave the classic settings (25-minute focus, 5-minute short break, 15-minute long break, 4 rounds) or change them.
- Press Start and work on one task until the timer rings.
- Take the break when it rings. The next part starts automatically unless you untick the box.
- Use Skip to move on early, and Reset to start the cycle again.
One classic cycle
With 25-minute focus blocks, 5-minute short breaks, a 15-minute long break and 4 rounds, one full cycle is 4 × 25 + 3 × 5 + 15 = 130 minutes, with 100 minutes of focus time. With 50-minute blocks, 10-minute breaks, a 30-minute long break and 2 rounds, a cycle is 140 minutes.
Why short blocks help
The technique was developed by Francesco Cirillo, who named it after a tomato-shaped kitchen timer (pomodoro is Italian for tomato). A fixed block makes it easier to start, a visible end point makes it easier to keep going, and regular breaks stop long sessions from wearing you out. Many people find 25 minutes too short for deep work and use 45 or 50 minutes instead; the method matters more than the exact numbers.
Common mistakes
- Checking messages during a focus block. Note the distraction on paper and deal with it in the break.
- Skipping breaks when work is going well. The break is part of the method.
- Letting the phone lock. Some phones pause timers in the background, so keep this tab open on a computer or keep the screen on.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a Pomodoro?
Traditionally 25 minutes of focus, then a 5-minute break, with a longer 15 to 30-minute break after four rounds.
Will the timer keep running in another tab?
Yes, in most desktop browsers, and the tab title shows the time left. Phones may pause it when the screen locks.
Does it make a sound?
Yes, a short tone plays at the end of each part. Turn your volume up and keep the tab open.
Is anything saved or sent?
No. The timer runs in your browser and nothing is stored.