Struggling to focus? The Pomodoro Technique, the 52/17 rule and time blocking are three of the most popular focus methods. Each works differently, and the best one depends on how you work. Here is a simple guide to all three.

What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique splits your work into 25-minute sessions with short breaks in between. It was created by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s, who named it after his tomato-shaped kitchen timer ("pomodoro" is Italian for tomato). (source)

1. Work on one task for 25 minutes.
2. Take a 5-minute break.
3. After four sessions, take a longer 15 to 30 minute break.

Best for: beating procrastination, studying and tasks you keep putting off.

What is the 52/17 rule?

The 52/17 rule means working for 52 minutes, then taking a 17-minute break. It comes from a 2014 study by DeskTime, which found this was the rhythm of its most productive users. Later DeskTime studies found slightly different numbers, such as 75/33 in 2025, but the idea is the same: focus hard, then rest properly. (source)

Best for: deep work such as writing, coding and design.

What is time blocking?

Time blocking means planning your day in advance by giving each task its own slot on your calendar. For example: 9:00 to 10:30 for a report, 10:30 to 11:00 for email, 11:00 to 12:00 for meetings.

Best for: busy days with meetings, errands and several projects.

Pomodoro vs. 52/17 vs. time blocking

Method	Work time	Break time	Best for
Pomodoro	25 minutes	5 minutes	Getting started
52/17	52 minutes	17 minutes	Deep focus
Time blocking	You decide	Planned in your calendar	Busy schedules

Which focus method is best for you?

• Can't get started? Try Pomodoro.
• Keep losing deep focus? Try 52/17.
• Busy all day but never get to the important work? Try time blocking.

You can also combine them. Block time on your calendar for a project, then use Pomodoro or 52/17 sessions inside that block.

Frequently asked questions

Is Pomodoro or 52/17 better? Neither is better for everyone. Pomodoro is easier to start, while 52/17 suits longer, deeper tasks.

Can I change the session lengths? Yes. The numbers are starting points. What matters is focusing fully, then taking a real break away from your screen.

Do I need an app? No. A simple timer and a calendar are enough.

Try it now

Pick one task and start your first session with the free Pomodoro Timer on WakeMode. It runs in your browser with no sign-up and keeps your screen awake, so your timer never disappears mid-session.