Manual Time vs Tracked Time
Manual time is time you add to your Work Diary manually without using Upwork Time Tracker, while tracked time is time recorded automatically by Upwork Time Tracker. Screenshots are only taken during tracked time, not during manual time entries.
Why it matters
Understanding the difference between manual time and tracked time is important because screenshots only apply to tracked time. If you add time manually, no screenshots are taken, but you also don't get the automatic time tracking benefits. Some clients prefer tracked time because it includes screenshots and activity levels for verification.
Tracked time is divided into 10-minute segments, with one screenshot taken at a random moment within each segment. Manual time entries don't have this structure and don't include screenshots. This means if you're concerned about screenshots, you could use manual time, but you'll lose the automatic tracking and verification features that many clients value.
Key details
| Feature | Tracked Time | Manual Time |
|---|---|---|
| Screenshots | Yes (one per 10-minute segment) | No |
| Activity Levels | Yes | No |
| Automatic Tracking | Yes | No |
| 10-Minute Segments | Yes | No |
How SneakTime relates
SneakTime works with tracked time, sending post-screenshot notifications when Upwork Time Tracker takes screenshots during tracked 10-minute segments. Since manual time doesn't include screenshots, SneakTime doesn't send notifications for manual time entries. If you use tracked time, SneakTime helps you stay aware of when screenshots occur, so you can make informed decisions about your Work Diary. SneakTime does not block screenshots or change how tracked time works—it provides notifications and awareness only.
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