If you are using thin Poha flakes, then no soaking is required. It is enough if you just wash it. The moisture that remains after washing thin poha is sufficient to make it fluffy and soft.If you are using medium thick rice flakes, then soak it for just 2 to 3 mins. If you are using thick poha flakes, then wash, drain and soak the Poha for 5 mins. I strongly recommend using a kitchen timer for this purpose.