5-Field Format
Format: * * * * * Fields: minute hour day month weekday
Example: 0 9 * * 1 Meaning: Every Monday at 9:00 AM
6-Field Format
Format: * * * * * * Fields: second minute hour day month weekday
Example: 0 0 9 * * 1 Meaning: Every Monday at 9:00:00 AM
Special Characters
***** – Any value , – Value list (1,3,5) – – Range (1-5) / – Step (*/5) ? – No specific value
Common Cron Expression Examples
Every Hour
0 * * * *
Runs at the start of every hour (00:00, 01:00, 02:00, etc.)
Daily at Midnight
0 0 * * *
Runs every day at 12:00 AM (midnight)
Weekly on Sundays
0 9 * * 0
Runs every Sunday at 9:00 AM
Monthly on 1st
0 0 1 * *
Runs on the 1st day of every month at midnight
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cron expression?
A cron expression is a string consisting of 5 or 6 fields separated by spaces that defines a schedule for recurring tasks. Each field represents a time unit (minute, hour, day, month, weekday) and accepts specific values or patterns.
What does */5 mean in a cron expression?
The */5 syntax means "every 5th value." For example, */5 in the minute field means "every 5 minutes" (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, etc.). In the hour field, it would mean "every 5 hours."
How do I run a cron job on weekdays only?
Use 0 9 * * 1-5 to run at 9:00 AM Monday through Friday. The weekday field accepts 0-6 (Sunday-Saturday) or 1-7 (Monday-Sunday), so 1-5 represents Monday to Friday.
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