How to Calculate Hours Worked (Timesheet Method)
Short answer
Convert start and end to minutes, subtract, then subtract unpaid breaks. Example: 09:00–17:30 with a 30-minute break = 8.0 hours.
Timesheets and freelance invoices need accurate hours. Use the hours calculator or do it by hand.
Steps
- Write start and end in 24-hour time.
- Convert to minutes since midnight.
- Subtract; add 24 hours if overnight.
- Subtract break minutes.
- Convert back to hours and minutes.
Pay
Multiply decimal hours by your rate with the salary calculator for conversions.
Multi-day projects
Use the date difference calculator for calendar spans.
Related: how to convert hourly wage to salary.
Related: how to estimate take home pay.
Related: how to convert time zones.
More practice
Change the inputs, rewrite the formula from memory, then confirm with the tool. Keep units consistent and read the disclaimer on tax or health pages before acting on a number.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate hours between two times?
Subtract in minutes, adjust for midnight, subtract breaks.
How do overnight shifts work?
Treat the end time as next-day when it is earlier than the start.
What are decimal hours?
Minutes÷60 added to whole hours (8:30 → 8.5).
Does this include overtime rules?
No — apply your local overtime policy separately.