How long should a Pomodoro session and break be?

October 13, 2026

The classic answer is 25 minutes of focus and a 5 minute break. But that's a starting point, not a rule. The right length depends on the work and on you.

The classic: 25 and 5

This is the Pomodoro Technique as it was first taught. It works best when:

• You're new to it.
• The task is one you keep putting off.
• The work comes in small pieces, like emails or flashcards.

Going longer: 50 and 10

Some work takes a while to get into, like writing, coding or reading something hard. If the timer keeps cutting you off just as you get going, try 50 minutes with a 10 minute break.

Longer still: 90 minutes

For long stretches of deep work, some people do 90 minutes with a 15 to 20 minute break. It's hard to hold focus that long, so build up to it.

How long should the break be?

• About a fifth of your focus time: 5 minutes for 25, 10 for 50.
• After four sessions, take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes.
• Step away from the screen. A break spent scrolling isn't much of a break.

How to pick yours

• Start with 25 and 5 for a week.
• If you're still going strong when the timer ends, go longer.
• If your mind wanders before it ends, go shorter.
• Use different lengths for different work. That's normal.

If you want to try a few lengths, Naru has 25, 50 and 90 minute sessions ready to go on iPhone and iPad.

Free · iPhone · iPad