PERFORMING EFFICIENTLY AS A STUDENT: An insight into the Pomodoro Technique

  

 

By Aanuoluwapo Akande 

Following the resumption of a new academic session, most students are eager to engage in an "academic comeback". On the other hand, some students are concerned about maintaining their good grades. Nevertheless, whether you are concerned about maintaining good grades or having an “academic comeback”, this is another session to prepare adequately by doing the due diligence expected of a student by working hard, studying extensively, attending classes, and writing tests to ensure excellent grades are attained. 

 

Besides engaging in academic activities, some students actively participate in extracurricular activities that enable them to network with peers. 

 

Undoubtedly, these activities can be draining mentally and physically but despite these activities, students can maintain or in fact, improve their level of productivity using the Pomodoro technique. Developed in the late 1980s, Francesco Cirillo, being a university student himself developed this technique to stimulate productivity in all endeavors he participates in.

 

How does the Pomodoro technique work? 

Firstly, you need to outline the goals you want to achieve. Break these goals down into small, actionable steps that you can tackle daily. For example, if your goal is to get A’s in all your courses, you can allocate specific days to focus on each subject. 

 

Narrowing that down, the Pomodoro technique could involve dedicating 25 minutes to concentrate on a task followed by a break of 5 minutes. You can do that continually until you've gone 4 rounds and then you take a long break between 10- 30 minutes. 

 

Why has this simple technique helped many achieve their goals, and why is it recommended for college students like you? 

The Pomodoro Technique helps you focus and eliminate distractions. When using this method, there's no room for interruptions like "Oh, I want to make a cup of tea." By setting a timer to work for 25 minutes, you commit to focusing on the task at hand for that duration. 

This technique also combats procrastination by breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable units. Instead of seeing your tasks as daunting hurdles, you can view them as small steps that are easy to accomplish. For instance, if your goal is to excel in all your courses, you can read each course for 25 minutes daily using the Pomodoro Technique. This approach makes it easier to achieve your academic goals. 

Even if you're already a hard worker but struggle to balance work and breaks, the Pomodoro Technique can help prevent burnout. It ensures you take necessary breaks, allowing you to return to work refreshed and maintaining your health. 

Additionally, the technique allows you to measure your productivity. By comparing the number of Pomodoro rounds completed today with previous days, you can track your performance and identify areas for improvement. 

Although the Pomodoro Technique is simple, efficient, and easy to use, these tips can help you maximize its benefits: 

• Avoid scrolling through your phone during the 5-minute breaks to prevent getting distracted for longer than intended. 
• Use break time to walk around, stretch, or reflect, making it easier to resume work. 
• Complete small tasks like checking your email or writing a bill during a 25-minute session instead of dedicating an entire session to one small task. 
• Be flexible with the technique. Adjust the work and break intervals to what suits you best, such as working for 30 minutes and taking a 10-minute break. 

Consistency with the Pomodoro Technique will help you build a habit of daily productivity, enabling you to achieve your big dreams and goals.