The phrase "short increments" refers to small or brief amounts of time or intervals. It means doing or measuring something in small, manageable steps or intervals. Full definition
I will have to tell it in short increments because I have limited and intermittent access to a computer and the Internet. (entrepreneur.com)
Add the hazelnuts to the food processor, and pulse in a couple short increments to crush. (onnit.com)
If students are having trouble sitting for a long time at first, start out with shorter increments and build up their stamina for longer periods. (edutopia.org)