Some tasks might be time-sensitive, but not important for you to complete. Once you’ve written these out, you’ll likely want to create a more detailed plan by creating a timeline for your goals. In this quadrant, write out your professional goals, regular chores, and long-term projects. On the other hand, “Important” tasks that are “Not urgent” require more thoughtful planning to complete. Tasks that require immediate attention might feel stressful, but they’re often easier to prioritize. Place tasks and assignments with strict or upcoming deadlines in the “Important” and “Urgent” box. At the top of the box, label the two columns as “Urgent” and “Not Urgent.” On one side, mark the rows as “Important” and “Not important.”Īs you think of items on your to-do list, consider whether each task is urgent, important, or both.

To start making your Eisenhower matrix, draw a four-quadrant box on a piece of paper or use an online drawing tool. Based on how you categorize these tasks, you’ll know where to get started. In the context of an Eisenhower matrix, things on your to-do list can be sorted into one of these categories, both categories, or neither. You might also include regular but necessary tasks, like grocery shopping or doing laundry in this category. Important tasks include actions that contribute to your long-term goals and may require planning ahead of time. On the other hand, important tasks don’t have time-sensitive deadlines, but they still need prioritization. The longer you delay these tasks, the worse the consequences may be.įor example, finishing a research paper the day before it’s due or registering to vote before election day requires immediate action to avoid failing a class or being unable to vote. These tasks require immediate action and likely result in negative consequences if left unfinished.

Urgent tasks refer to tasks that must be done as soon as possible. Collect, organize, and share your ideas in a digital notebook.

Onenote task management