Quick picks
- Must-haveTimestamp camera app
- Must-haveNotes app with folders
- Worth havingHours and overtime tracker
- HandyConstruction calculators
You don't need expensive software as an apprentice or employed tradesperson. A handful of free apps on your phone save time, and help build your NVQ evidence as you go.
What to look for
- Photo evidence. Use an app that stamps date and time on photos. It makes NVQ portfolios far easier.
- Notes and measurements. One place for cutting lists and dimensions beats scraps of timber.
- Timesheets. Track your hours and overtime yourself, even if your firm does too.
- Calculators. Stair, roof pitch and material calculators save a lot of head-scratching.
- Cloud backup. Back up your photos. A lost phone shouldn't mean a lost portfolio.
Side by side
| Pick | Type | Use it for | Cost | Who needs it |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timestamp camera app | Camera | NVQ evidence | Free | Everyone |
| Notes app with folders | Notes | Measurements and lists | Free | Everyone |
| Hours and overtime tracker | Timesheet | Checking your pay | Free–£ | Employed and apprentices |
| Construction calculators | Calculator | Setting out and ordering | Free–£ | Carpenters and builders |
Timestamp camera app
Photos with date, time and location
Assessors love dated photos. Take them at each stage of a job and file them by job name.
Good
- Builds evidence as you work
- Free options
Not so good
- Uses phone storage, so back up regularly
Notes app with folders
Cutting lists, sizes, snag lists
The notes app already on your phone is fine. Make a folder per job.
Good
- Already installed
- Syncs across devices
Not so good
- Gets messy without folders
Hours and overtime tracker
Timesheets
Log start and finish times daily. Useful if a payslip ever looks wrong.
Good
- Peace of mind on pay
Not so good
- Only works if you log daily
Construction calculators
Stairs, roofs, materials
Stair and roof calculators are a big help while you're learning the maths.
Good
- Fewer mistakes
- Fast
Not so good
- Always double-check against the drawings
Quick answers
What app do I need for my NVQ?
Your training provider may use its own e-portfolio app. Until then, take dated photos of every job.
Do I need invoicing software?
Not while you're employed. You will once you're self-employed. See our invoicing apps guide.
Verdict
Start with a timestamp camera, a notes folder per job and an hours log. All free.