> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://opentrain.ai/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Time tracking tools

> Learn how OpenTrain projects use time tracking tools and where to find setup instructions for the tool assigned to you.

Some OpenTrain projects use an external time tracking tool to record the time you spend on training and project work. The tool and project you should use appear in an assigned [Project To-do](/docs/trainers/project-todos).

<Warning>
  Set up only the tool assigned to you. Do not create a separate account or join a project unless your Project To-do tells you to do so.
</Warning>

## How setup works

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the assigned Project To-do">
    Open the active job and select **Project To-dos**. The setup card identifies the required provider and shows your current connection status.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Follow the provider guide">
    Use the setup guide linked from the card. Provider guides explain where the invitation arrives, which application to install, and how OpenTrain verifies the connection.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Return to OpenTrain">
    After completing the provider steps, return to the Project To-do and select its check or verification action.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Available guides

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Set up Hubstaff" icon="clock" href="/docs/trainers/time-tracking/hubstaff">
    Accept the invitation, install the desktop timer, run a connection test, and verify the setup in OpenTrain.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Before tracking project time

* Confirm that you selected the correct project in the tracking tool.
* Start the timer when you begin the activity covered by your project instructions.
* Stop the timer when you finish that activity or take a non-working break.
* Review the monitoring notice shown for your project before you start tracking.
* Follow the payment and time-submission terms shown in your OpenTrain contract and project instructions.

<Note>
  A tracking tool records project time, but it does not independently create or release an OpenTrain payout. Your OpenTrain contract and approved project payment process still apply.
</Note>

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Complete Project To-dos" icon="list-check" href="/docs/trainers/project-todos">
    Learn where project setup requirements appear and how verified actions complete.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Use Work Email" icon="envelope" href="/docs/trainers/work-email">
    Open project invitations sent to your OpenTrain-managed inbox.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>