A task is an individual unit of work within a project. Each task has its own instructions, expectations, and submission requirements. Tasks are the primary way fellows contribute to a project.

 

Before you start a task

Each task will include instructions and an indication of the expected time commitment before you begin. Take a moment to review what's involved before starting. Avoid beginning a task if you don't have enough time to complete it thoughtfully. Rushed work often falls short of quality standards and may need to be revised or redone.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Follow the task instructions. Each project has its own quality standards, and requirements can vary from task to task.
• Only work on one task at a time. If you open another task while one is in progress, the platform will automatically pause the current task's timer.
• Time tracking matters. All paid work is tied to accurate time tracking. Make sure the task timer is running while you work and paused when you step away. For more details on time tracking, refer to Time tracking for Handshake AI Fellowship projects and Time tracking standards. 

 

How long tasks typically take

Task length varies depending on the project and type of work involved. Some tasks can be completed in a few minutes, while others, particularly those requiring deeper reasoning or specialized expertise may take significantly longer.

 

Why tasks aren't always available

Task availability is driven by the needs of our partner AI labs and can fluctuate. Projects may ramp up quickly, slow down, pause, or end altogether depending on where a lab is in their research and development process. This is a normal part of how AI project work operates.

There may be periods where tasks are limited or unavailable, even if you're actively matched to a project. These gaps aren't a reflection of your standing as a fellow. When tasks do become available, we recommend jumping in promptly, as availability can change quickly and with little notice.

 

What it means if a task is paused or closed

From time to time, tasks or entire projects may be paused or closed. This is a normal part of working on AI projects and is driven by the needs of our partner labs — not your performance as a fellow.

Paused tasks: A paused task means work has temporarily stopped. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as a lab may be reviewing progress, adjusting requirements, or shifting priorities. When a project resumes, you'll be notified by email and the tasks will reappear in your dashboard.

Closed tasks: A closed task or project means the work has ended. Projects can close suddenly and with little notice depending on where a lab is in their development process.

If a task or project is paused or closed, no action is required on your end. The Handshake AI team will communicate updates as early as possible — keep an eye on your inbox and dashboard so you're ready when new tasks open up.

 

Troubleshooting common task issues

My timer isn't displaying correctly

If your timer doesn't look right, there's no need to worry. The payment system tracks your time internally and can account for any discrepancies. Track your time externally as well so you have a reference point. If you notice anything unexpected in your payout, reach out to support.

I'm receiving a "Failed to submit block" error

Try the following steps in order:

1. Make sure all text fields and multiple-select options have been filled out completely.
2. If the issue continues, save your work in a separate document, exit the task, clear your browser cache and cookies, then log back in and try again.
3. If it still fails, try adjusting the wording of your prompt to reduce the length of the input or output without compromising the integrity of the task.