Timetrap
A simple command-line time tracker written in Ruby for tracking work hours across multiple timesheets.
What is Timetrap?
Timetrap is a command-line time tracker written in Ruby that allows users to log work hours across multiple timesheets with notes. It solves the problem of manual time tracking by providing a fast, scriptable interface for developers and professionals who prefer terminal-based tools.
Developers, sysadmins, and technical professionals who work primarily in the command line and need a lightweight, customizable way to track time without GUI applications.
It offers a simple, extensible, and automation-friendly alternative to graphical time trackers, with features like natural language parsing, multiple export formats, and a plugin system for custom workflows.
Overview
Simple command line timetracker
Use Cases
Best For
- Tracking time spent on different coding projects or clients
- Automating time log exports to CSV for spreadsheet analysis
- Integrating time tracking with calendar apps via iCal output
- Scripting time entry updates or migrations between timesheets
- Using natural language for quick time corrections (e.g., "started 5 minutes ago")
- Extending functionality with custom formatters for specialized reporting
Not Ideal For
- Teams requiring graphical user interfaces for non-technical stakeholders
- Environments where Ruby is not installed or maintained
- Projects needing real-time, collaborative timesheet editing
- Users who prefer automatic time tracking via desktop activity monitoring
Pros & Cons
Pros
Integrates the Chronic gem to parse phrases like '5 minutes ago' or 'tomorrow at noon,' making time corrections intuitive and fast, as demonstrated in the README examples.
Supports text, CSV, iCal, JSON, and numeric IDs out of the box, enabling easy data migration to spreadsheets, calendars, or APIs without extra tools.
Allows creation of custom formatters and auto sheets with Ruby classes, backed by community repositories for plugins like Harvest and Toggl integration.
Features abbreviated commands (e.g., 't s' for 't sheet') and script-friendly output like numeric IDs, ideal for automation and quick terminal workflows.
Cons
Requires Ruby gem installation, which can lead to setup issues like rdoc parsing errors, forcing workarounds such as '--no-document' flags or pre-installing rdoc.
Core support for services like Harvest and Toggl relies on external, community-maintained plugins, not built-in features, adding fragmentation and maintenance burden.
Setting up custom formatters or auto sheets involves placing Ruby files in specific directories (e.g., ~/.timetrap/formatters/), requiring technical knowledge and manual management.
Stores data locally in a SQLite database with no built-in backup, synchronization, or multi-device support, risking data loss and complicating team usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
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