# Duration Fields

Duration fields can store time durations, which makes them great for logging the length of events, with values like '2:30'. They can be displayed in HH:mm format and configured with time input options and limits to control the allowable duration range.

## Duration Field Formats

* **Default** By default, duration fields show HH:mm:ss, which is hours, minutes and seconds
* **Time** You can format a duration field as a time field, which limits the input to 24 hours, and shows the AM/PM selector depending on the user's language settings

## Use Cases

Duration fields are ideal for:

* Time tracking for projects and tasks
* Meeting lengths and event durations
* Service delivery times
* Process completion times
* Break durations
* Session lengths
* Response times

## Working with Duration Data

Duration fields store time as elapsed time rather than specific clock times. This makes them perfect for:

* Calculating total time spent on activities
* Setting time limits and expectations
* Measuring performance and efficiency
* Billing and invoicing based on time

## Best Practices

* Use the Default format (HH:mm:ss) for precise time tracking
* Use the Time format when dealing with scheduled times within a 24-hour period
* Consider setting reasonable minimum and maximum limits
* Duration fields work well with [Rollup fields](/data/collections/rollups.md) for calculating total times across related records


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