If your to-do list keeps getting longer even though you've been at your desk all day, a time management app may help.
This can be especially useful when you have a job that lets you set your own schedule and need to keep several assignments moving along.
Below are five options for organizing tasks, staying focused, planning your day, and tracking your work hours.
Some have free plans, while others offer a trial before you subscribe.
5 Time Management Apps to Try
1. Todoist
Todoist may be a good fit if you need one place to keep track of work assignments and everything else on your to-do list.
Tasks can be grouped into projects, given due dates, and marked by priority.
You can also type something like "send invoices every Friday" instead of setting each date yourself, which is handy for work that repeats.
The free plan includes five personal projects, task reminders, and list and board layouts. A paid Pro plan adds a calendar layout, custom reminders, and room for more projects.
Go here to sign up for Todoist.
2. Pomofocus
Pomofocus is a simple timer you can use in your computer or phone's browser when you want to concentrate on one task for a set amount of time.
It uses the Pomodoro approach, usually 25 minutes of work followed by a five-minute break, although you can adjust both.
You can also add tasks and see an estimate of how long your list will take.
The basic timer is free, while paid features include project tracking, report downloads, and an ad-free experience.
3. Trello
Trello may suit you better if you prefer to see where each project stands rather than work from one long list.
Tasks are placed on cards, which can be moved between columns such as "To Do," "Doing," and "Done."
For example, you could keep writing assignments on separate cards and move each one through drafting, editing, and submitting.
Due dates, notes, and attachments can be kept with the card.
The free plan includes up to 10 boards per workspace and unlimited cards.
Paid plans add features such as unlimited boards and full access to Planner for scheduling tasks on a calendar.
Go here to sign up for Trello.
4. SkedPal
SkedPal is for people who already know what needs to be done but have trouble fitting everything into the day.
It uses your task list, priorities, available hours, and calendar appointments to schedule time for your work.
Because the schedule is built around the information you enter, you will spend more time setting it up than you would with a basic timer.
You can try SkedPal free for 14 days without a credit card. The Core plan is $9.95 per month when billed annually.
5. TimeCamp
TimeCamp can help when you're not sure how much of your day is going to each project.
It can also be useful if you're freelancing and need a record of the hours spent on different clients.
You can run a timer as you work or add your hours manually, then review them in timesheets and reports.
Its free plan includes unlimited users and projects, along with time tracking and PDF report exports. Paid plans add features such as invoicing and more detailed reporting.
Go here to sign up for TimeCamp.
For more help with distractions and your daily routine, you can also read my tips for staying focused while working at home.
Need More Help Managing Your Time?
A while back, I read Time Management in 20 Minutes a Day by fellow work at home blogger Holly Hanna, and I recommend it if you're struggling to get through your to-do list.
After putting some of her advice into practice, I was getting more done and had more time in the evenings to relax or be with my family.
It's a quick read with advice that goes beyond the apps listed above.
Anna Thurman is a work at home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 15 years. Her findings are published weekly here at Real Ways to Earn.