Bose QuietComfort HeadphonesVoices and noise at home interrupt you every few minutes.View Pomodoro for coding and deep work
Coding needs long, uninterrupted stretches, so many programmers prefer 50/10, 60/10 or 90/15 over the classic 25 minutes. A steady background sound and a clear goal for each block protect your focus.
- Suggested rhythm
- 90/15
- Suggested sound
- Brown Noise
- Best for
- Programming, writing, design
A deep-work routine
- 01Write the single outcome of the block, such as “get the login test passing”.
- 02Close messaging apps and mute notifications for the duration of the block.
- 03Start the timer and begin with the hardest part.
- 04If you think of something else, add it to a list and keep going.
- 05At the bell, stop mid-task if you can, leave a note on what comes next, and take a real break.
Which rhythm to use
Programming has a high cost for every interruption, so longer blocks usually fit better: 50/10 or 60/10 for most work, and 90/15 for deep, demanding problems. If you are stuck or procrastinating, a short 25/5 block can get you moving.
Why you can’t focus after a meeting shows why protecting whole blocks matters.
Which sound to use
Lyrics and chatter compete with code and text. Brown noise is a common choice for its deep, steady sound, or pink noise as a softer alternative. In an open office, white noise masks voices more strongly. Here’s why talking distracts more than machines.
Make it easier to resume
End a block by writing the next step, so restarting costs nothing.
Keep your editor, terminal and notes in the same place every time.
Batch messages and email between blocks instead of during them.
Limit yourself to one or two deep blocks a day, and keep the rest lighter.
Gear that helps
Small things that remove distractions or make long sessions easier. The links are affiliate links: if you buy through them Luneia may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you (details). More on our Picks page.
Bose QuietComfort HeadphonesVoices and noise at home interrupt you every few minutes.View 
Monitor light barGlare and a dark desk when you work at a screen at night.View 
Adjustable laptop standLooking down at a laptop for hours makes you stop early.View 
Timed lock box for your phoneChecking one notification can cut a 25-minute block short.View Keep reading
Questions
Questions, answered.
What is the best Pomodoro rhythm for programming?
Longer blocks usually fit better: 50/10 or 60/10 for most work and 90/15 for deep, demanding problems.
Is the 25-minute Pomodoro too short for coding?
Often yes, because getting into a problem takes time. Use it to start, then move to a longer rhythm.
What sound is best for coding?
A steady, non-musical sound such as brown or pink noise works for many people. Avoid lyrics, which compete with code and text.
How many deep-work blocks can I do in a day?
One or two is already a lot. Keep the rest of the day lighter.
Is there a free Pomodoro timer for deep work?
Yes. Open the free Pomodoro timer with 90/15 and brown noise selected.
Keep reading
Guides to go with it
Letters