A timesheet is a fundamental tool for freelancers. It is a document where you record the time spent on client projects, which is essential for accurate billing and project management.
What is Timesheets?
A timesheet is a record, often a digital form or spreadsheet, where you log the hours you work on a specific task or project. It details the date, duration, and a brief description of the work completed. This record serves as the basis for invoicing clients, especially when you charge by the hour.
Why is this important?
Timesheets are crucial for transparency and trust with your clients. They provide clear proof of work, justify your invoices, and help prevent payment disputes. For you, they are vital for tracking your productivity, managing project budgets, and ensuring you get paid for every hour you work.
How does it work?
You start and stop a timer or manually log your hours as you work. You note the project name, task, and any relevant details. At the end of a billing period, you submit this log to your client, often through a project management tool or directly with your invoice, to request payment.
Pros and cons
The main advantages are accurate billing, clear client communication, and valuable insights into your work patterns. Potential downsides include the administrative time to maintain them and the risk of clients disputing logged hours if descriptions are vague.
Conclusion
Using timesheets is a professional practice that protects both you and your client. By accurately tracking your time, you ensure fair compensation and build a foundation of trust. It turns your work hours into a clear, billable asset.
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