The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that helps you be more productive by breaking your time into short, focused sessions. The standard time for each session is 25 minutes, but it can be longer or shorter; it's up to you.
You set a timer for the specified time and work on a task until the timer goes off. Then, you take a short break before getting back to it. The length of the break depends on how long you have been focusing. For 25 minute sessions, people take a 5 minute break; for 50 minute sessions, it can be 10; it all depends on what you find works for you. After a few focused work sessions, you take a longer break to refresh.
The idea is that working in short, focused bursts that are easier to manage and keep your attention. By taking regular breaks, you can also avoid feeling burnt out or overwhelmed. Plus, it helps you maintain your energy, focus and motivation levels.
How does it help you when you are studying for your Salesforce Certification?
There are three key points that I believe help;
- Increased Focus: When you have a specific amount of time to work on something, it can help you stay focused and avoid distractions. By committing to working on a task for a set time, you are more likely to stay on track and avoid procrastination. This was key for me as I knew there was an end in sight when I could take a break.
- Increased Motivation: Every time you complete a session without being distracted, it's a little win, and all these wins are motivating. By setting goals for yourself and tracking your progress, you can stay motivated and productive throughout your study session while reducing burnout.
- Increased Retention: I found that when using the Pomodoro technique, I retained more information, it's because I was more motivated when studying, I had better focus, and I was fresh every time I started a new session, so I felt ready to go. It's hard to study when you are unmotivated or feel like there is no end. The Pomodoro technique helps with that.
Bonus Benefit:
- Reduced Burnout: Another key effect I discovered was that I didn't feel as burnout either. That's because when you study for long periods without a break, it leaves you feeling exhausted. Because you take regular breaks, you can refresh your mind and come back for your next session feeling more energised.
So now that you know about it, how do you implement it in your studies?
- Choose a concept or topic: Decide on what you want to work on. We've made it easy by breaking all the lessons in Get Force Certified courses into specific concepts per session.
- Set the timer: Set a timer for 25 minutes. You can use a traditional kitchen timer, a timer app on your phone, or anything. I'd recommend starting with 25 minutes to get a feel for if that time frame is right for you but feel free to adjust.
- Study: Study for the full 25 minutes. Stay focused and avoid distractions like checking your phone or social media.
- Take a break: When the timer goes off, take a short break of 5 minutes. Use this time to get up, stretch your legs, and do something unrelated to studying, like going for a quick walk, grabbing a coffee, or playing with the dog.
- Repeat: After your short break, set the timer for another 25 minutes and continue studying. Repeat steps 3-4 until you have completed four Pomodoros (25-minute work sessions).
- Take a longer break: After you have completed four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. Use this time to do something enjoyable or relaxing, like reading a book or listening to music.
- Start again: After your longer break, start again and continue with your work.
As you can see, the Pomodoro Technique is a great way to stay focused and motivated while studying for your Salesforce Administrator Certification. By breaking your study time into short, focused sessions and taking regular breaks, you can increase your retention and comprehension and reduce burnout.
To implement the Pomodoro Technique, choose a concept or topic to study, set a timer for 25 minutes, and study until the timer goes off. Then, take a short break before starting again. Repeat this process for four Pomodoros before taking a longer break. After your longer break, start again and continue with your work.
Check out Get Force Certified courses if you're looking for a structured approach to studying for your Salesforce Certification. Our courses are designed to help you learn at your own pace and get certified quickly and easily. So why not try the Pomodoro Technique with Get Force Certified courses and see how it can help you reach your certification goals?