How SwapAHour Works

Exchange skills using time as currency. Teach what you know, learn what you love — no money required.

Your Journey in 6 Simple Steps

From signing up to earning badges, here's everything you need to know to start exchanging skills.

1. Create Your Profile

Sign up for free and tell us about yourself. Add your skills, experience level, and what you'd like to learn. Your profile is your introduction to the community.

  • Add a friendly profile photo
  • Write a compelling bio
  • List skills you can teach
  • Specify skills you want to learn
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2. Find Skills or Post Requests

Browse our skill marketplace to find what you want to learn, or post a request and let skill providers come to you. Use filters to find the perfect match.

  • Search by category or keyword
  • Use the map to find local providers
  • Check reviews and ratings
  • Post requests for specific needs
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3. Book a Session

Found someone with the skills you need? Send a booking request with your preferred time. Once accepted, you'll receive calendar invites and reminders.

  • Propose multiple time options
  • Include a message about your goals
  • Confirm session details in chat
  • Add to your calendar
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4. Exchange Skills

Meet online or in-person for your skill exchange session. Use our Session Hub to track time, share resources, and coordinate with your partner.

  • Be punctual and prepared
  • Use the session timer
  • Take notes and ask questions
  • Confirm completion together
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5. Leave Reviews

After your session, leave a review to help others find great skill providers. Your feedback builds trust in the community and helps providers improve.

  • Be honest and constructive
  • Mention specific highlights
  • Rate fairly based on experience
  • Help the community grow
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6. Earn & Grow

Earn time credits by teaching others, then spend them to learn new skills. Collect badges, climb the leaderboard, and become a valued community member.

  • Teach to earn credits
  • Learn to spend credits
  • Unlock achievement badges
  • Build your reputation
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Why Choose SwapAHour?

We're building a community where everyone can learn and grow together.

No Money Required

SwapAHour uses time as currency. One hour of teaching equals one hour of learning, regardless of the skill. Everyone's time is valued equally.

Community-Driven

Join a supportive community of learners and teachers. Share achievements, participate in discussions, and grow together.

Safe & Trusted

Our review system, verification badges, and safety guidelines ensure a secure environment for all skill exchanges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We've got answers.

How do time credits work?

When you sign up, you receive 5 starting credits. You earn credits by teaching skills to others (1 hour taught = 1 credit earned). You spend credits to learn from others (1 hour learned = 1 credit spent). This creates a fair exchange where everyone's time is valued equally.

What skills can I exchange?

Almost anything! Popular categories include Music, Languages, Technology, Arts & Crafts, Fitness, Cooking, Business, and more. As long as it's legal and safe, you can teach or learn it on SwapAHour.

Can I do sessions online?

Yes! Many skill exchanges happen via video call. When creating a skill listing, you can specify if you offer in-person sessions, online sessions, or both. Use your preferred video platform like Zoom, Google Meet, or Skype.

What if I'm a complete beginner at teaching?

Everyone starts somewhere! Many of our best teachers began as nervous first-timers. Start with skills you're confident in, prepare a simple lesson plan, and remember that enthusiasm and patience matter more than perfection.

How do I know if someone is trustworthy?

Check their profile for reviews from other users, verification badges, and their activity history. Start with shorter sessions, use our messaging system to communicate beforehand, and trust your instincts.

What happens if a session doesn't go well?

Both parties must confirm session completion before credits transfer. If there's a dispute, you can report the issue and our team will review it. We have safety guidelines and a fair resolution process.

Ready to Start Swapping?

Join thousands of skill swappers who are learning and teaching without spending a dime.