The Pomodoro method: study 25 minutes at a time

If sitting down to study feels like climbing a mountain, the Pomodoro method can help. It breaks study time into short, focused sprints that feel easy to start and leave you fresher at the end.

How it works

1. Choose one task, such as "Chapter 4 exercise 4.2".
2. Set a timer for 25 minutes and work only on that task.
3. When it rings, take a 5-minute break: stretch, drink water, no screens.
4. After four rounds, take a longer 20–30 minute break.

Why it works

Twenty-five minutes is short enough that starting doesn't feel scary, and long enough to get real work done. Regular breaks keep your brain fresh, and counting completed "pomodoros" gives you a satisfying sense of progress.

Tips for students

• Write down distractions that pop up and deal with them in the break.
• Use 50/10 sprints for subjects that need deep focus, such as maths problem-solving.
• Plan your day in pomodoros: "3 for Physics, 2 for English".

Combine this with a weekly plan from your tutor and you will be surprised how much you get done.