First off, I have to admit that I don't know all the ins and outs of the Pomodoro Technique. There is ,however, a free book available that gives a detailed explanation of the technique. But here's how the technique works in a nutshell:
Pomodoro is based on five principles:
- Planning: At the beginning of your day, you think of all the tasks you have to accomplish during the day.
- Tracking: During your work, you consistently mark any observations or efforts.
- Recording: Set up an archive of your daily completed tasks as well as your personal evaluations.
- Processing: Convert raw data into information
- Visualizing: Package information in a format that makes it easier for you to understand your improvements and then utilize them
With Pomodoro a timer needs to be set for 25 minutes before starting to work. Within this time (actually called Pomodoro) you work with diligent concentration on one single task. No distractions or disruptions can occur in this time or you have to start your Pomodoro all over again. Once you've finished one Pomodoro, you check place a checkmark next to your task and enjoy a five-minute pause. After your break you keep on going: start a new Pomodoro, work hard for 25 minutes, put a checkmark, and take a five-minute break.
Every four Pomodoros you're entitled to a 15-30 minute break. Perfect time for emails, coffee, paperwork and all that other stuff that keeps you away from your work...:)
As soon as you've accomplished a task, it gets crossed out. If you got it done while the Pomodoro is still ticking, you aren't allowed to move on to another task. You can just relax till the timer's up. Once it rings you can dedicate yourself to a new task.
As I said, I can't really judge for myself if Pomodoro works in the real world. I've just started trying to implement this technique into my day-to-day life. And my first impression is actually pretty good...
The Pomodoros Tasks app can be used for the following:
- Add tasks
- Start the Pomodoro task timer
- Start the break timer
- Display the break duration after the fourth Pomodoro
The variety of features isn't too great, but it's enough for you to get the job done.
Bottom Line:
It's too bad that you can't add details to any of your tasks. Maybe I just haven't given this Pomodoro technique enough time. I'm fairly sure that combining it with another time management program could be really useful. There's definitely room for improvement for this app, but they've gotten off to a good start.
David
Sep 4, 2012 4:56:14 AM
Could use some improvements The notification needs to go away if all tasks completed or something. at least an option to disable it. It would be nice to have an option to mark the task complete at the end of time box or to leave incomplete.
Susan
May 2, 2012 10:26:32 PM
Fair at Best :-( Occasionally Timer Won't Ring.
MaChS
Mar 8, 2012 8:50:07 PM
Just missing the ticking... Works well and is really useful. If only there was an option for enabling ticking sound, it would have been perfect for me. :)
Tom
Oct 29, 2011 2:43:15 AM
Nice. I love that we can name our tasks. Helps keep me focused.
Henry
Oct 4, 2011 9:38:41 PM
Pretty good Nice if you have no other way to track to do lists. Wanted seamless integration with Google tasks. Visual not as appealing as some others.
Bird
Jul 21, 2011 9:58:57 PM
My favorite Pomodoro app It has a little quirk when you enter your first task: The entry field disappears. You can address it by turning your phone sideways. This only occurs on the first task. Initially, I didn't want to put up with it, but after using it awhile...everything just clicks. I also like the fact that you can select sounds from your ring tones. I don't know of any other Pomo that does that.
Ryan
Jul 11, 2011 7:21:16 PM
Just seems to stop mid-task when running in background. Has to be force closed quite often. Needs updating
Aang
Jul 9, 2011 9:10:24 AM
This app would be awesome optimized for the tablet!!! :) And where's the ticking? -Samsung Tab 10.1
ADS
Jul 7, 2011 10:06:05 PM
Very simple and useful for pomodoro technique.
Samuel
Jun 14, 2011 4:48:21 PM
Great! But wish there were an optional ticking sound during timer.