Ask HN: What icons would you use for "past", "now" and "future"?

What icons would you choose or make?

5 comments

tptacek12 lat temu

If I could simplify them enough to read well, I might use a calendar with a backward or forward arrow on it, or an hourglass with same.

wikwocket12 lat temu

When I need ideas, I like to search existing icon repositories.

Here are some ideas:

- https://www.iconfinder.com/search/?q=past

- https://www.iconfinder.com/search/?q=future

determinant12 lat temu

Past: A sundial

Now: a digital watch/alarm clock/iPad with time showing

Future: A robot (maybe with an iPad for a head)/terminator coming out of a portal.

taulant12 lat temu

I would use visual metaphors from a music player. Back (<<) Pause/Present(||) Forward (>>)

bujatt12 lat temu

Thought about it myself but I am afraid it is too widely used for navigation in pagination. So IMHO it might be misleading. Thanks for the suggest, though.

mkempe12 lat temu

Would these icons represent data filters or actions?

bujatt12 lat temu

Filters for actions: past = done, now = in focus, future = deal with later.

mkempe12 lat temu

checkmark on top of thin square, square, dotted outline of a square?

bujatt12 lat temu

Good idea, but added an arrow (?) to the future. Made a sketch, what do you think? http://cl.ly/image/2m121A351M0F