How to Use Hotjar
A beginner-friendly guide to getting started with Hotjar in 2026.
Getting Started: Step by Step
Create your Hotjar account
Visit Hotjar'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 Hotjar workspace. Set your preferences, invite team members if needed, and customize the interface to match your workflow.
Explore heatmaps
One of Hotjar's key features is heatmaps. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore session-recordings
One of Hotjar's key features is session-recordings. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore surveys
One of Hotjar's key features is surveys. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Integrate with your existing tools
Connect Hotjar 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 Hotjar 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 Hotjar's capabilities before committing to a paid subscription.
- Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow — most tools have extensive shortcut systems.
- Check Hotjar'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 Hotjar isn't the right fit, here are some similar tools:
Ready to Try Hotjar?
Behavior analytics tool with heatmaps, session recordings, and surveys to understand how users interact with your site.