> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guide.ellieplanner.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guide.ellieplanner.com/features/tasks/task-timer.md).

# Task timer

You can keep track of how long a task takes by using the built in timer function in Ellie. When a task is done being timed, we'll also the time to the "actual time" of the task

### How to start a timer

There are 2 ways to start a timer. From the task card (by clicking the estimated time dropdown) and then the task modal by clicking the "Start timer" button next to estimated time.

<figure><img src="/files/CF7HlrFrw241Asjg6NlD" alt=""><figcaption><p>Start a timer for the card</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/ZGJUPdqYvpn6Vv48BCs5" alt=""><figcaption><p>Start a timer from the task modal</p></figcaption></figure>

### Timers on mobile

Timers function exactly the same on the iOS and iPad app. Except when the timer is expanded you have a beautiful full screen view 👀

<figure><img src="/files/yijgFVwWbbPRbyMPlXtf" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Floating timer for desktop

On our desktop app, you can actually choose to enable a floating timer that floats above all browser windows and across all desktops.&#x20;

To enable it, go to settings -> enable floating timer and then you should see the floating timer appear (if one is running).&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/COSlF0yLtzWqCmOZp9R5" alt=""><figcaption><p>Floating timer</p></figcaption></figure>

### Floating timer options

You can customize the experience of the timer in 2 ways:

1. Auto start timing the next task after task completion
2. Changing the background image of the timer (more images soon!)

<figure><img src="/files/dIfrrq3WnbyV5z2jTKJb" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>