If a script says 3 times a day, is that in a 24 hr time span? What times of day should I take it?

I have several meds. I'm trying to make a plan of when I should take. 3 x day is when? 8am, 4pm, and 12am? or just while I'm awake? 8am, 2pm, 9pm? I have twice a day, three times a day, four times a day and as needed 4 to 6 hrs a day, and three times a day as needed.