I first heard about it from the book A Mind for Numbers by Barbara Oakley, a book that is full of studying tips and hints along with science information about how the brain works in the learning process (the book's very good about using metaphors to portray the information simply rather than getting bogged down by the concepts like some books do). I highly recommend it.
Back to the Pomodoro, the idea is that you figure out what you need to accomplish, and then you set a timer for 25 minutes (either with a phone, your computer, or a simple kitchen timer which is what I use) and work until the timer goes off. If something tries to distract you, jot down the idea briefly on a sticky note or piece of paper and get back to work. The point is to spend those entire 25 minutes working without distractions, and then give yourself a 5 minute break to relax and re-energize yourself before getting back to work for another 25 minute interval. After 4 poms (pomodoros), it's recommended that you treat yourself to a 15 minute break instead of the 5 minute intervals. And if those times don't suit your needs, adjust them to fit your schedule.
It won't always work for motivating you, but it's worth trying. Here is a Wikipedia article with more information.
Best of luck learning, let me know what you've been up to and what techniques you recommend when learning or doing work.
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