Cron Expression Generator
Create cron expressions and preview their schedules.
CRON Expression Parser
Parse a CRON expression into plain English and display the next scheduled run times. Includes a built-in syntax reference.
Input data is processed in your browser
Data is never sent to a server
Tool
What is the CRON Expression Parser?
This tool helps you instantly understand what a CRON expression like */15 * * * * or 0 2 1 * * actually means — and when it will next fire.
While the companion CRON Schedule Generator focuses on creating CRON expressions through a UI, this parser focuses on reading them. Just paste any CRON expression to see a plain-English description and a list of upcoming run times.
How to Use
- Type or paste a CRON expression into the input field (e.g. `0 9 * * 1-5`). You can also click a preset button to load a common expression.
- Each field (minute, hour, day, month, weekday) is shown as a chip with a short description.
- The human-readable summary explains what the expression means in plain English (e.g. "At 09:00 AM, Monday through Friday").
- The "Next Scheduled Runs" section lists up to 8 upcoming execution times, with a relative label such as "in 3 hr" on the right.
- Open "CRON Syntax Reference" to review the allowed ranges and special characters for each field.
FAQ
How is this different from the CRON Schedule Generator tool?
The CRON Schedule Generator lets you build a CRON expression by interacting with a UI. This CRON Expression Parser does the opposite — you paste an existing expression and it tells you what it means and when it will run next.
Are six-field CRON expressions (with seconds) supported?
Six-field expressions (sec min hr day mon dow) are accepted and the human-readable summary is shown. However, the next-run calculation is based on the five standard fields (minute onward).
Which timezone are the next run times shown in?
Times are displayed in your browser's local timezone (the timezone set on your device).
Could the results differ from my server's crontab?
Yes. The server's cron daemon runs in the server's configured timezone, while this tool uses your browser's local timezone. If the timezones differ, the displayed times will not match the server's execution times.
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