Why the recall check matters
A timer on its own only stops you drifting. The recall check is what turns a block of reading into learning: pulling information out of your memory strengthens it more than reading it again.
It also shows you exactly what did not go in, which is the best place to start the next block.
Which length to pick
- 25 and 5 is the classic Pomodoro split. Good for subjects with lots of short facts, or when it is hard to get started.
- 50 and 10 suits problem sets, essays and past papers, where 25 minutes ends just as you get going.
- 15 and 3 helps on low-energy days. Getting one block done is better than none.
Tips that make blocks work
- Decide what the block is for before you start, for example 'osmosis questions 1 to 6'.
- Put your phone in another room, not just face down.
- After three or four blocks, take a longer break of 20 to 30 minutes.
Questions
Does the timer keep running if I switch tabs?
Yes. It counts down against the clock, so it stays accurate in the background, and the time left shows in the tab title. It pauses at the end of each block so you can do the recall check.
Is the Pomodoro technique backed by research?
The evidence for the exact 25 and 5 split is limited. The parts that matter most are well supported: short breaks to stay focused, and testing yourself rather than re-reading.
Does it make a sound?
No. Keep the tab visible or glance at the tab title. A silent timer is less likely to annoy anyone revising near you.
Other free tools
- Marks needed calculatorEnter the papers you have sat and the grade boundary you are aiming for. See what you need on the rest.
- Spaced repetition plannerType your topics and exam date. Get a day-by-day revision plan with reviews spaced out.
- Forgetting curveSee how much of a topic you are likely to keep, and how a few short reviews change that.
Need something to revise from? Browse the free study guides or turn your own notes into flashcards.