Ask What is the best way to handle a freelance project that finishes much faster than the estimated time?

[Edward22]

At the start of a freelance project, it can be hard to know exactly how much time will be needed, especially when the scope is not fully clear. Sometimes the job goes much quicker than expected after you have already agreed on an hourly estimate, and it can feel strange to bill for fewer hours than the client anticipated. At the same time, charging for the full estimated amount when the work took less time can feel dishonest. How do you handle this kind of situation without causing tension with the client?