How to Use Harvest
A beginner-friendly guide to getting started with Harvest in 2026.
Getting Started: Step by Step
Create your Harvest account
Visit Harvest's website and sign up for a free account. You'll need an email address to get started.
Set up your workspace
Once signed in, configure your Harvest workspace. Set your preferences, invite team members if needed, and customize the interface to match your workflow.
Explore time-tracking
One of Harvest's key features is time-tracking. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore invoicing
One of Harvest's key features is invoicing. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore expense-tracking
One of Harvest's key features is expense-tracking. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Integrate with your existing tools
Connect Harvest with the other tools you use daily. Most integrations can be set up in the settings or integrations panel.
Start using it for real work
Now that you're set up, start using Harvest for actual tasks. The best way to learn is by doing — don't worry about getting everything perfect right away.
Pro Tips
- Start with the free plan or trial to explore Harvest's capabilities before committing to a paid subscription.
- Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow — most tools have extensive shortcut systems.
- Create templates for recurring tasks to save time on repetitive work.
- Check Harvest's official documentation and community forums for advanced tips and best practices.
- Review your workflow after 2 weeks of use and adjust your setup based on what's working and what isn't.
Key Features to Explore
Alternatives to Consider
If Harvest isn't the right fit, here are some similar tools:
Ready to Try Harvest?
Time tracking and invoicing software for teams that bill by the hour.