Cron Expression Parser
Cron Expression Parser
About Cron Expression Parser
Parse and explain cron expressions in plain English with our free cron expression parser. Debug scheduled jobs, validate cron syntax, and understand complex cron expressions. Works with Unix crontab, Kubernetes CronJobs, GitHub Actions, and more.
Example
Input
0 9 * * 1-5Output
At 09:00, Monday through FridayWhy Use Cron Expression Parser?
- Debug scheduled jobs — Verify when your cron jobs will actually run.
- Validate cron syntax — Catch errors before deploying to production.
- Understand complex expressions — Decode step values, ranges, and lists in plain English.
Cron Expression Parser FAQs
What is a cron expression?
A cron expression is a string of five fields (minute, hour, day of month, month, day of week) that defines a recurring schedule. It is used by Unix cron, Kubernetes CronJobs, GitHub Actions, and more.
What does * mean in a cron expression?
The asterisk (*) means 'every possible value' for that field. For example, * in the minute field means 'every minute', and * in the month field means 'every month'.
Does this support 6-field or 7-field cron?
This tool parses standard 5-field cron expressions. Some systems add a seconds field or a year field, but those are non-standard extensions.
What are the five fields in a cron expression?
The five fields are: minute (0-59), hour (0-23), day of month (1-31), month (1-12), and day of week (0-7, where 0 and 7 are Sunday).
What does */5 mean in cron?
The */5 syntax means every 5 units. For example, */5 in the minute field means every 5 minutes: 0, 5, 10, 15, and so on.