I was a big procrastinator, and I seemed to cram for an exam just to burn out and get distracted, until I found this study method that is so good it feels illegal.
Nowadays, many students cram not just for exams, but also for homework or work in general. They do most of their work at the last minute. I don’t think I have to explain how tiring and foolish this is. To combat this, there is a method called the Pomodoro method developed by Francesco Cirillo which consists of studying in such a way that would avoid burnout and procrastination. Simply put, we mentally exert ourselves in short bursts while taking a lot of short breaks, as opposed to cramming in one, long session.

Here is what you need to do to harness the full potential of the Pomodoro method:
First, try to pick a task that shouldn’t take too long (if you can’t find a task, then try to split a large task into smaller subtasks). Then, set a timer for 25 minutes and work on the task or subtask. After that, set a 5 minute timer and take a break for that amount of time. Repeat this process until you’ve done 4 pomodoro iterations. Finally, take a longer 15-30 minute break. Adjust the study/break duration to your needs, and you will find yourself studying much more efficiently than before.
Most of the time, the reasons why students stop studying is either because of fatigue from studying for too long, or because of a distraction. The Pomodoro method covers both of those problems, helping students who don’t have a definite study schedule that they can keep.
By doing this, this study method can prevent procrastination and burnout because of the short and controlled studying periods. A study in 2023 had 87 students from a Dutch university with bachelor’s and master’s degrees, split into two groups. One group was told to study and take breaks when they want to, and the other group was instructed to take a short break after studying for a moderate amount of time. The group who studied using the systematic study method(aka the Pomodoro method) reported a reduced amount of fatigue and distractedness.
The Pomodoro method is very effective, rewarding you frequently for studying in short but highly productive sessions. So, if you are looking for a study method that is easy, rewarding, and actually effective, try the pomodoro method.