Tips for Better To-Do Lists

Make Better To-Do Lists  

To-do lists can be a great way to prioritize the tasks you need to accomplish and to think about the time it'll take to do so. To make a to-do list that works well for you, consider how to customize it to you, and review some of the techniques that work for others.

Customize Your To-Do List​​​​​

  1. Pick a format that works for you. The best to-do list is the one you visit regularly – on your phone, in a planner, on a sticky note, etc. Choose something you'll keep close or can revisit easily. Choose features that you enjoy, like writing by hand or color-coding. 
  2. Clarify the purpose and scope. You can make a short-term list for what you want to get done in the next hour, or you can have an ongoing list of the chores and errands you want to accomplish that spans multiple weeks. Or both! Figure out what works best for you.  
  3. Short vs. comprehensive lists. A short list (3-5 items) helps you focus on what’s most important. A comprehensive list captures everything, giving you peace of mind that you have it all written down. Experiment with both and see how you feel about them. 

close-up of a hand writing in a notebook

Remember: What works for someone else may not work for you. Don't be afraid to try different approaches to to-do lists and prioritization!

Tips for Better To-Do Lists​​​​​

  1. List clear priorities and due dates. Your list should help you know what to work on and make it easier to focus on the most important tasks first.
  2. Divide large tasks or projects into small, manageable pieces. Put the smaller tasks on their own list. With a series of smaller tasks, you can make steady progress without feeling daunted or overwhelmed.  
  3. Cross things off your list. When you’re finished with something, cross it off your list! This gives you a sense of accomplishment, and the momentum of completing tasks will help you remain productive.
  4. Use small periods of time. All our schedules have small periods of time that open up. Instead of using that 10-30 minutes (or more) for browsing the internet or checking Instagram, consult your to-do list and see if you can get one or two of the smaller items done and crossed of your list.  
  5. Plan ahead for greater efficiency. As you decide where and when to accomplish your tasks, look for places to increase efficiency. Can two tasks happen together? Can you study flashcards while standing in line for football tickets or at the grocery store? Maybe read through notes while you’re on the bus?  
  6. Reevaluate and recalibrate. Don't disregard those unfinished tasks; instead, evaluate them and make a new plan to complete them. Remember that good schedules and lists are flexible and realistic. If you consistently need more time than you allotted for tasks, use that information to more accurately plan your next to-do list.