How to Time Track in Notion: the 3 BEST Methods

Summary

In this video, three effective methods for time tracking in Notion are explored, catering to different user needs. The first method involves creating a database with start and end times, using buttons and formulas for automatic tracking. The second method focuses on manual input, allowing users to track time spent on tasks by entering minutes, with a flexible formula to convert them to hours. The third method uses Notion's calendar to block out time for tasks, offering a visual approach to time management. These strategies aim to enhance productivity and task management for all types of Notion users.

Takeaways

• 😀 Automated time tracking in Notion can be achieved by creating a database with start and end time properties, buttons to trigger timers, and a formula to calculate time in minutes.
• 😀 The formula `date between(end time, start time, 'minutes')` allows you to calculate the time difference in minutes, which is crucial for accurate tracking.
• 😀 Buttons in Notion can be used to automate starting and ending the timer, making the time tracking process more efficient and hands-off.
• 😀 The time tracking formula in Notion can sometimes show negative values if the start and end times are entered incorrectly, so always input the end time before the start time.
• 😀 Manual time tracking in Notion gives more flexibility, where you input the time spent manually and use formulas to convert minutes to hours for a customized approach.
• 😀 Manual tracking prevents issues that can arise from forgetting to hit 'start' or 'end' in an automated system, making it more reliable if you're attentive.
• 😀 The manual method also allows you to adjust the tracked time based on interruptions, giving you more control over the accuracy of the data.
• 😀 The time blocking method in Notion uses the calendar view to plan out tasks in advance, providing a clear visual representation of your week and daily schedule.
• 😀 Time blocking is excellent for seeing your entire week at a glance, but it doesn't track exact time spent unless you actively update it, unlike the other methods.
• 😀 For those who want a more in-depth productivity system, using Notion's calendar for time blocking, combined with formulas for time tracking, creates a well-rounded approach to task management.
• 😀 The HQ template from Notion is designed to combine time tracking and task management in one, offering a powerful solution for productivity and detailed time analysis.

Q & A

What is the first method of time tracking discussed in the video?

The first method involves automatic time tracking using Notion's database features, where start and end times are tracked through buttons. A formula is then used to calculate the time difference in minutes.

How does the 'start' button in the first method function?

The 'start' button, when clicked, activates the start time by recording the current time, which is then used to calculate the duration of the task.

What role does the 'end' button serve in the first method?

The 'end' button is used to stop the timer and record the end time, allowing the formula to compute the time difference between the start and end times.

Why is the formula in the first method important?

The formula calculates the time difference between the start and end times in minutes, giving the user an accurate duration for each task.

What potential issue can arise when using the first method of time tracking?

A potential issue is if the start time is recorded after the end time, which could result in negative time values. It's crucial that the end time is always recorded before the start time.

What is the second method of time tracking and how does it differ from the first?

The second method is manual time tracking. Instead of using buttons to automatically track time, the user manually enters the minutes spent on each task. This method offers more flexibility but requires more attention to detail.

Why might someone choose the manual time tracking method over the automatic one?

Someone might prefer the manual method to avoid issues with missed start or end button clicks, which could lead to inaccurate tracking. Additionally, manual entry gives more flexibility in tracking time spent, especially when interruptions occur.

How does the formula in the second method convert minutes to hours?

The formula in the second method divides the total minutes by 60 and then adjusts the value to display the time in hours, rounding it as necessary. For example, 20 minutes is converted to 0.3 hours.

What are the advantages of the manual method compared to the automatic one?

The manual method reduces the risk of errors from missed timer clicks and allows for more accurate tracking of time when interruptions occur. It also gives the user flexibility to adjust the time based on real circumstances.

What is the third method of time tracking mentioned in the video?

The third method involves using Notion's calendar feature for time blocking. Tasks are scheduled with specific start and end times, and a formula is used to calculate the time spent on each task.

What is the benefit of using time blocking with Notion's calendar?

Time blocking with Notion's calendar allows users to visualize their entire schedule, making it easier to manage tasks and avoid overloading. It also offers a clear view of how time is distributed across tasks and projects.

What is a drawback of using the calendar method for time tracking?

The main drawback is that it doesn’t automatically track time spent on tasks, unlike the first method. It requires the user to actively plan and block time in advance, and doesn’t capture actual time spent during the task.

Can the calendar method in Notion track time accurately?

While the calendar method is great for visualizing a schedule, it doesn’t track the actual time spent unless combined with a formula. The formula can be used to calculate the duration between scheduled start and end times, but it won't track interruptions or deviations.

How does the formula in the calendar method calculate time?

The formula in the calendar method calculates the difference between the start and end times of scheduled tasks in minutes. It uses the 'date between' function to compute the duration.

Why is using the calendar method beneficial for those who time block consistently?

For users who consistently plan their tasks and block time in Notion's calendar, this method provides a clear, visual overview of their entire week. It helps users see when they have free time and when they are overburdened with tasks.