The Pomodoro problem: why 25 minutes is a lie your brain tells you
The Pomodoro Technique is useful. The 25-minute interval is not sacred. For most knowledge workers, the optimal deep work interval is longer — and break structure matters more than duration.
Francesco Cirillo invented the Pomodoro Technique as a university student. The 25-minute interval was chosen because that's what fit his kitchen timer — not because of neuroscience. Many people who struggle with Pomodoro are actually struggling with the interval, not the concept.
How to find your actual interval
Trakby lets you set custom focus intervals. Start at 45 minutes. If you feel interrupted at the end, try 50 or 60. If you're tired by minute 35, try 30. Your focus quality score in the Analyse pillar will show you the pattern.
Break structure matters more than most people realise. A 5-minute break that involves checking email or social media isn't a break — it's a context switch. Real breaks involve movement, looking at something distant, or deliberate non-focus.
Experience the loop yourself
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