How to use the Pomodoro timer
- Set the focus and break lengths, or keep 25, 5 and 15 minutes.
- Press Start and work until the chime plays.
- Take the break, then start the next round. A long break comes every 4 rounds.
Examples
The usual cycle: 4 rounds of 25 minutes, with a 5 minute break after each of the first three and a 15 minute break after the fourth. That's 100 minutes of focus in 2 hours 10 minutes.
A longer study block for JEE or NEET practice: set focus to 50 minutes, the short break to 10, the long break to 30, and a long break after every 2 rounds. Two rounds give 100 minutes of study before the 30 minute break.
With Start the next phase on its own ticked, a session started at 10:00 ends at 10:25, the break runs to 10:30, and the next session ends at 10:55, even if the tab sat in the background the whole time.
About this tool
The Pomodoro method splits work into short, focused sessions with breaks in between: usually 25 minutes of work, a 5 minute break, and a 15 minute break after every fourth session. Press Start and work until the chime. You can change every length, let the next phase start on its own, and get a notification when a phase ends while you're in another tab.
Common questions
Does the timer stay accurate in a background tab?
Yes. It notes the moment the phase ends and works out what's left from that, rather than counting ticks, and the chime is scheduled ahead on the audio clock. Browsers slow down background tabs, but the end time doesn't move.
Why didn't I hear the chime?
Browsers only let a page play sound after you've tapped or clicked on it. Press Start yourself at least once, check that Play a sound is ticked, and that your device isn't muted.
What happens if I reload or close the tab?
The timer is saved in this browser, so a reload carries on where it was. If it ran out while the tab was closed, it waits at the next phase.
Can I change how often the long break comes?
Yes. Set Long break after every to any number of rounds from 1 to 12.
Is it free to use?
Yes. There's no sign-up, and you can use it as often as you like.
Is my text uploaded anywhere?
No. This tool runs inside your browser, so what you enter stays on your device.
Do I need to install anything?
No. It works in your browser on a computer or a phone.