Step 1: Set your intervals
Default 25/5/15 (focus / short break / long break after four rounds) is fine for day one. Change only after you have five days of experience.
Step 2: Optional sound and theme
Pick ambient sound if your space is noisy. Use dark mode if you work evenings. Sounds should pause on breaks automatically.
Step 3: Add one task
Write a sprint-sized outcome. Start the timer. Work until it rings — do not restart early because you “feel done” without a defined done.
Step 4: Take the break
Leave the chair. No email. When break ends, either continue the same task (new sprint) or pick the next task.
Step 5: Long break
After four focus sessions, take the long break. Hydrate and move. This prevents the afternoon slump.
Step 6: Weekly review
Count completed Pomodoros. Note which tasks repeatedly needed more than one sprint (split them smaller next time).
Keyboard shortcuts (if available)
Learn start/pause, reset, skip, and settings keys so you never leave flow to hunt controls.
FAQ
Do I need to keep the tab open?
Yes for browser timers — the tab is the clock. Pin the tab or use a dedicated window.
Is my data private?
With local-only storage, tasks and settings stay on your device. Read the site’s privacy policy for analytics or ads on content pages.