Microtasking 101: how to earn with small tasks in 2025
Marta Luik
2 years ago
Share:
If you're looking for a quick and flexible way to make extra money online, microtasking might be the perfect solution. This growing trend in the gig economy allows businesses to break large projects into smaller tasks, which people can complete to earn money.
Many of these tasks, known as human intelligence tasks, require skills that machines or algorithms can't replicate. This highlights the important role of human effort in the process.
In this article, we'll explore what microtasking is, how it works, and how platforms like JumpTask can help you succeed in this rapidly expanding market.
What is microtasking?
Microtasking is the process of dividing complex projects into small, easily manageable tasks – sometimes called “micro jobs” – that anyone with a computer and internet connection can handle.
For businesses, it’s a way to break up a large job into smaller ones that don’t need a full team with specific skills. In other words, large companies use this process to save resources.
For users, microtasking is an easy way to earn extra money fast. Instead of needing in-depth expertise, like in traditional freelancing, you can complete short, simple tasks like completing online surveys, gathering data, or testing apps.
Because many of these tasks are human intelligence tasks and can’t be automated, people remain essential to the process. So it’s no surprise that microtasking’s popularity has surged. According to Mordor Intelligence, the market is expected to hit $7.94 billion by 2025 and climb to $28.10 billion soon after.
Why has microtasking taken off so quickly?
Businesses need fast, accurate results, and microtasking lets them get small tasks done easily in large quantities.
People want to earn quickly and easily. And with no lengthy training or complex tools needed, it’s perfect for beginners.
Each year, microtasking opens up new possibilities for both businesses and people looking for extra money. With more tasks, better platforms, and greater earning potential, it’s becoming a go-to side hustle for busy people around the world.
Start with microtasks today
Try freelance microtasks on JumpTask and earn on your schedule. Get started and start earning today!
How microtasking works
Microtasking typically happens on GPT (“Get-Paid-To”) websites, which serve as a bridge between businesses and people ready to complete small tasks.
The process is quite simple:
Businesses post tasks: Companies upload assignments like transcribing audio or tagging photos.
You pick tasks: Choose which tasks offered you want to complete based on your interests or skill set.
Complete tasks and get paid: Once finished, you’ll receive payment. This can be in cash, gift cards, or even crypto.
One standout GPT site is JumpTask. Known for its user-friendly interface, JumpTask offers a wide variety of microtasks, from online surveys to video watching. Its transparent payment system and quick cash-outs make it a favorite among microtaskers who want a simple, efficient way to earn money online.
With a clear understanding of how microtasking works, you might be wondering what kinds of tasks you can actually do. Let’s explore some of the most common types of microtasks you can try.
Typical microtasks you can try
One of the biggest draws of microtasking is the sheer variety of work available.
You can pick tasks that suit your style, whether you like engaging with social media or prefer working behind the scenes.
Below are some popular types of microtasks:
Quick social media tasks.Engage with social media content by liking, commenting on, or following profiles. It’s will be perfect for you if you’re already a frequent social media user.
Taking surveys. Share your thoughts on products, advertisements, or preferences by answering questions and short surveys. These tasks are simple and typically take just a few minutes to complete.
Data entry and transcription. Convert handwritten or scanned text into digital format, or transcribe short audio files.
App & game testing.Explore new apps or games and provide feedback on any bugs or design issues. Developers will use your input to enhance the user experience.
Passive income. Participate in tasks that require little effort, like running specific apps in the background. While earnings are small, they accumulate over time without much involvement.
Product testing.Test out products sent to your home and share your experience. These tasks give companies valuable insights into how their items are used and perceived.
Translate online.Translate short pieces of text between languages. If you’re bilingual, this is a straightforward way to put your language skills to use.
Train AI online. Contribute to artificial intelligence development by tagging images, sorting data, or labeling content. These tasks are integral to improving AI systems.
Watching videos and ads. View promotional videos or ads and confirm you’ve watched them. These tasks are easy to fit into downtime, such as while cooking or relaxing.
Data collection. Perform tasks that involve gathering valuable information for clients, such as content moderation, surveys, and transcription.
Processing data. Engage in tasks that involve data processing and data categorization, which is integral to freelance work like text translations and web investigations.
And these are just a few examples of the types of microtasks you can try. With so many options available, there’s likely something that suits your skills and preferences.
Why microtasks are a good side hustle idea
Microtasking has become a popular side hustle, thanks to its simplicity and accessibility. Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or someone looking to supplement their income, microtasking offers plenty of advantages that make it worth considering:
Flexibility. You can work whenever you have free time, on your own schedule. Whether you’re commuting, waiting in line, or relaxing at home, microtasks fit easily into your daily routine.
No specific skills required. Most tasks are straightforward and beginner-friendly, meaning there’s no need for prior experience or extensive training. You can start earning almost immediately.
Low start-up costs: All you need is a computer or smartphone and cellular connection. There’s no need to invest in tools, training, or expensive software.
Earning potential on your terms. While microtasking won’t replace a full-time job, it’s a reliable way to cover small expenses, save for a treat, or pay for subscriptions. The more time you invest, the more you can earn.
Microtasking offers a variety of tasks, including regular tasks that can be more lucrative than simple ones. Whether you’re looking for something temporary or an ongoing source of supplemental income, microtasking offers a practical and accessible solution.
Potential drawbacks and considerations of microtasking
While microtasking offers flexibility and ease of access, like everything, it’s not without its downsides.
Here are a few challenges you might encounter when diving into this type of work:
Lower pay per task. Microtasks are typically small and quick, which means the pay for each task is modest. Tasks like providing feedback on websites and apps might have lower pay per task. To earn a significant amount, you’ll need to complete a large volume of tasks consistently, which can be time consuming.
High competition. Popular tasks that have competitive pricing are often claimed quickly. If you’re not actively monitoring job opportunities, you might miss out on the best ones.
Limited availability in some regions. Certain websites may restrict access to specific countries, limiting your options based on where you live.
Inconsistent workload. The availability of tasks can fluctuate. Some days might offer plenty of opportunities and more jobs, while others could leave you waiting for new projects to appear.
Despite these challenges, you may find that the benefits of microtasking outweigh the downsides, especially when you use platforms designed to simplify the process.
For example, JumpTask’s freelancer platformoffers clear task descriptions, fast payouts, and a wide variety of opportunities for any gig worker, making it easier to avoid common pitfalls and focus on earning efficiently.
Ready to give it a try? Let’s look at how to get started with microtasking and find the right platform for your needs.
How to get started with microtasking platforms
Getting started with microtasking is simple for new users, but taking the right steps can help you avoid frustration and earn more. Follow this easy guide to begin:
Choose the right platform. Research and quality control is key. Read reviews, check Trustpilot scores, and look for user feedback on platforms to ensure the projects are legitimate and reliable.
For example, you can explore what users are saying about JumpTask on Trustpilot and Google to see if it meets your needs.
Check geographical availability. Most platforms and companies operate only in specific regions or countries. Before signing up, confirm that the microtasking project offers jobs for users in your location.
Look at payment methods and frequency. Understand how and when you’ll be paid. Some platforms offer payments in cash, while others use gift cards or crypto. Make sure the payment options align with your preferences and goals.
Consider task variety and volume. Microtask websites with more tasks give you better chances to earn extra money consistently. Look for sites offering a large number of microtasks, including search engine evaluation, to keep the work interesting and ensure steady opportunities.
By choosing the right platform and understanding your options, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and rewarding microtasking experience. Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into how much you can actually earn with microtasking.
How much can you earn with microtasking?
Your earnings from microtasking depend largely on:
Your time commitment
The microtasking platforms you use
The types of tasks you choose
The more effort you put in, the more you can earn, so it’s important to set realistic expectations.
Let’s be very clear: microtasking is not a replacement for a full-time job and won’t make you wealthy. It often pays below minimum wage when compared to traditional jobs, but it’s a practical way to cover small to medium expenses, like subscription services or phone bills.
Different platforms have varying payout potential. For example, some tasks may pay $5–$15 per hour, such as transcription or app testing, while other tasks like surveys or gathering data typically pay $0.50–$5 per hour.
Here’s an example to give you an idea:
Spending 2 hours per day on higher-paying tasks at $5/hour could earn you $10 daily or around $300 per month.
Spending the same time on lower-paying tasks at $2/hour might bring in $4 daily, adding up to about $120 per month.
The number of tasks posted and available on a platform also affects your earnings. For example, a site offering hundreds of tasks daily allows for consistent work, while one with only 10 tasks per day will limit your opportunities.
In short, microtasking works best as a flexible side hustle. With the right platform and a smart approach to task selection, you can make it a useful way to supplement your income.
Earning experiences on microtask websites
Microtasking has allowed a large number of people to earn extra income by completing small tasks online. We analyzed popular Quora thread, Trustpilot reviews, and other popular social platforms to analyze the success rate of users.
For example, one Quora user shared their journey, starting with casual microtasks like providing basic information and answering questions on surveys. Over time, they refined their approach, focusing on higher-paying tasks that took less than 10 minutes.
“I made around $600 in six months just by prioritizing surveys with decent payouts,” they explained.
Another user noted how microtasking provided not only a financial boost but also a steady stream of engaging projects.
“It’s not just about the money. It’s the satisfaction of completing something and seeing your efforts pay off,” they said.
By consistently delivering quality work, they were able to complete more jobs and find lucrative opportunities over time.
Some people found success by expanding into specialized tasks like website testing, content creation, and product feedback.
“You start with basic tasks, but as you learn the ropes and earn good reviews, you can take on bigger jobs that pay more,” the user shared.
Others appreciated the simplicity and flexibility. “It’s not going to make you rich overnight, but if you’re consistent and strategic, it adds up,” said a long-time microtasker.
These experiences show that while microtasking may not replace a full-time job, it can provide meaningful supplemental income if you’re using the right microtask websites. With focus, quality control strategy, and a willingness to learn, many have turned microtasking into a practical and enjoyable way to earn extra cash.
Key takeaways
Here’s a quick recap of the most important points from this guide:
Microtasking is a simple way to earn extra income online by completing small tasks.
Most tasks, like watching videos, data entry, and testing websites, don’t require special skills.
While earnings range from $0.50 to $15 per hour depending on task complexity and platform, microtasking is best for covering small expenses.
Drawbacks like low pay per task and fluctuating availability can be managed by choosing reliable microtask websiteslike JumpTask.
To start, select a trustworthy platform that matches your location, payment preferences, and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do microtasking from my smartphone?
Yes, most microtasking platforms are mobile-friendly, allowing you to work from your phone anywhere you have an internet connection. You can start filling out surveys, testing websites or digital products, or perform small data entry tasks on the go, making it easy to fit microtasking into your daily routine.
How soon can I get paid after completing online tasks?
Payment schedules vary by platform. Some pay immediately after you complete a whole task, while others have weekly or monthly payouts. Many projects and platforms also have minimum thresholds you must meet before requesting payment. Always read the platform’s payment terms to understand when you’ll receive your earnings.
Are there age requirements for microtasking sites?
Yes, many microtasking platforms require users to be at least 18 years old. Some projects may allow teens with parental permission, but this is less common. Always check the Terms of Service before signing up to ensure you meet the platform’s age requirements.
Is my data safe when I sign up for microtasking platforms?
Legitimate platforms typically have privacy policies and secure systems in place to protect users’ data. However, you should still read reviews and check Trustpilot ratings to ensure the site is reputable. Avoid sharing sensitive personal information that isn’t necessary for completing tasks or receiving payment from companies.
Do I need any qualifications to start microtasking?
Most microtasks don’t require specific qualifications beyond basic computer or smartphone skills. However, certain tasks — like audio transcription in specialized fields — may ask for language or industry expertise. Check the task descriptions to see if you need any additional skills before starting.
Can microtasking replace my full-time job?
Microtasking is usually best as a side income source. While consistent effort can help you earn extra cash, it’s not generally enough to replace a full-time job. Think of it as a flexible way to supplement your main income or cover occasional expenses rather than a long-term career path.
Marta Luik
Freelance Copywriter
An explorer of the future of work, she has a secret love for urban gardening, cultivating ideas like a city garden in full bloom. In her posts, she offers a fresh perspective on the blossoming world of online earning and the gig economy.