How to Run a Complete Pomodoro Cycle
Developed by Francesco Cirillo, the Pomodoro Technique structures deep work into timed sprints separated by scheduled recovery breaks. Our browser timer opens configured to the classic 4-session cycle with color-coded visual rings (Rose for Focus, Emerald for Short Break, Blue for Long Break):
- Start Focus (25 Mins): Click Start Focus to begin Session 1 of 4. The active tomato indicator pulses while the tab title shows
(MM:SS) ๐ฏ Focus. - Short Break (5 Mins): When the work block reaches 00:00, the selected Web Audio alarm plays and the timer transitions into a 5-minute recovery break.
- Repeat for 4 Pomodoros: Each completed work sprint fills a ๐ badge at the top of the card and increments your daily total counter.
- Long Break (15 Mins): After completing the 4th focus block, the timer switches to a 15-minute long break before starting a fresh cycle.
Popular Focus & Study Interval Presets
Open the Settings (Gear Icon) panel to customize durations for different cognitive tasks:
| Method | Focus | Short Break | Long Break | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic 25/5 (Default) | 25 min | 5 min | 15 min (every 4) | Reading, emails, revision, overcoming procrastination |
| Extended 50/10 | 50 min | 10 min | 25 min (every 3) | Software engineering, math problem sets, essay writing |
| 52/17 Flow Ratio | 52 min | 17 min | 20 min (every 2) | Deep analytical tasks requiring full mental reset |
| 90/20 Ultradian | 90 min | 20 min | 30 min (every 2) | Full practice exams, design sprints, architecture reviews |