Maker's schedule explained
For a manager, a meeting is just one slot in the day. For a maker, one meeting in the middle of the afternoon can break it into pieces too short for real work.
Teams can respect both by grouping meetings together and keeping whole mornings or afternoons free.
Try it today
- Move your meetings to one part of the day.
- Protect at least one half-day a week with no meetings.
- Share your schedule type with your team so they know when to book you.
Where it comes from
Paul Graham described the two schedules in his essay "Maker's Schedule, Manager's Schedule" in July 2009.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the maker's schedule?
- The maker's schedule is a day built from long, unbroken blocks for creative work like writing or coding. It contrasts with the manager's schedule, where the day is cut into one-hour meetings.
- Where does the maker's schedule come from?
- Paul Graham described the two schedules in his essay "Maker's Schedule, Manager's Schedule" in July 2009.
- How do I start with the maker's schedule?
- Move your meetings to one part of the day. Protect at least one half-day a week with no meetings. Share your schedule type with your team so they know when to book you.
- Which tools help with the maker's schedule?
- Tools in our directory that help include Reclaim.ai, Cal.com, Google Calendar, Amie. Each has its own page with pricing, pros and cons.