The 25-minute rule is a time management technique also known as the Pomodoro technique. It involves breaking down work into 25-minute intervals, called "pomodoros," followed by short breaks. The technique is named after the Italian word for tomato, "pomodoro," because it was developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s using a tomato-shaped kitchen timer.
To use the 25-minute rule, you would start by setting a timer for 25 minutes and focusing solely on a single task or project during that time. Once the timer goes off, you take a short break of about 5 minutes, before starting the next 25-minute session. After completing four consecutive pomodoros, you take a longer break of about 20-30 minutes before returning to work.
The idea behind the technique is to break up work into manageable chunks, increasing productivity and reducing the likelihood of burnout. It also helps individuals prioritize tasks and maintain focus on a single task without getting sidetracked by distractions.