Time Estimation

I need help.

I keep underestimating the time required to do a programming task at work.  can anyone give me tips on how to better my time estimation?

Rules of thumb. 

Think how long it feels, double it and use the next unit up.  So if it's something that ought to be a half-day task, say one week -- and you'll probably be right.

Software is 90% complete for 90% of the elapsed development time.

Getting a piece of work 95% complete takes 95% of the estimated time.  Finishing it takes the other 95%.