HBR Guide to Getting the Right Work Done (HBR Guide Series)

Chapter 12

To-Do Lists That Work

by Gina Trapani

Here’s how to write to-do lists that work:

1. Break it down. Take a task and carve it into bite-sized chunks. Then break it down some more. Don’t confuse to-do’s with goals or projects. A to-do is a single, specific action that will move a project toward completion. It’s just one step. For example, “Plan the committee lunch” is a project. “E-mail Karen to get catering contact” is a to-do.

   Breaking down your task into the smallest possible actions forces you to think through each step up front. With the thinking out of the way, it’s easy to dash off that e-mail, make that call, or file that report, and move your work along with much less resistance.

2. Use specific action verbs and include details You’re ...