25 Minutes Work, 5 Minutes Break Timer
Focus for 25 minutes, then a 5 minute break starts automatically. Repeat four times, then take a longer break.
How the 25 on, 5 off method works
- Write down one task, then press Start. Work only on that task for 25 minutes.
- When the alarm rings, the 5 minute break timer starts. Stand up, drink water, look away from the screen.
- When the break ends, start the next 25 minute block. After four blocks, take a 15–30 minute break.
Working 25 minutes and resting 5 minutes is the original Pomodoro Technique, created by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s and named after his tomato-shaped kitchen timer. The short work block makes it easy to start, and the fixed break stops you from burning out. Four rounds take about two hours, which is a realistic amount of deep work for one sitting. Students often call it the “25 minute study method”.
A typical 25/5 schedule
| Block | Length |
|---|---|
| Focus 1 | 25 min |
| Short break | 5 min |
| Focus 2 | 25 min |
| Short break | 5 min |
| Focus 3 | 25 min |
| Short break | 5 min |
| Focus 4 | 25 min |
| Long break | 15–30 min |
Tips for 25 minutes work, 5 minutes break
- During the 5 minute break do not check email or social media; it rarely stays at 5 minutes.
- If a 25 minute block is interrupted, restart it instead of counting half a pomodoro.
- Need longer focus? Try a 45 minute timer with a 15 minute break, or 60 minutes.
- Background sound helps some people: use the 25 minute timer with music.
- Learn the full method in How to Use the Pomodoro Technique.
FAQ
What is the 25 minutes work, 5 minutes break method?
It is the Pomodoro Technique: work on one task for 25 minutes, rest for 5 minutes, and after four rounds take a longer 15 to 30 minute break.
Does the 5 minute break start automatically?
Yes. When the 25 minute focus timer ends, an alarm rings and the 5 minute break timer is ready. You can skip the break if you are in flow.
Who invented the 25 minute work, 5 minute break rule?
Francesco Cirillo developed it in the late 1980s as a university student, using a tomato-shaped kitchen timer, which is why it is called Pomodoro (Italian for tomato).
Is 25 minutes on, 5 minutes off good for studying?
Yes. Many students use it as the “25 minute study method” because short blocks reduce procrastination and regular breaks reduce fatigue.
What should I do in a 5 minute break?
Move: stand, stretch, walk, refill water or look out of a window. Avoid starting anything that is hard to stop, such as social media or video.
Can I change the work and break lengths?
Yes. Open the timer settings to change the focus and break length, for example 50/10. For a ready-made break countdown use the 5 minute timer.