To-do lists

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1 http://ask.metafilter.com/mefi/40437
2 Software available

[edit] http://ask.metafilter.com/mefi/40437

http://ask.metafilter.com/mefi/40437 What makes your todo list work for you?

hattifattener :

I like the 43F/[Getting Things Done]/whatever approach of keeping track of not just "things to do", but "what is the next action?" for each of these things. "Put in new bookhelves" might be on my to-do list, but it's too nebulous. Things like "measure the space", "design the bookshelves", "buy the hardware", etc., are small enough to just do, and they're small enough tha they can bubble up to the top of the list and get done in a spare twenty minutes or when I happen to be going near the store, unlike "put in new bookshelves" which pretty much requires me to allocate a weekend to it before even considering the details.

I don't usually make a to-do list for a given day; I just have a list of stuff that needs doing, and things get done when they get done.

tnoetz01:

There are countless todo systems out there, all with their own strengths and weaknesses. I've found, however, that the single most important concept involved in getting things done is commitment do using the system you select. Pick a system that works for you, that helps compensate for your shortcomings, and stick with it!

ranglin:

Another reason for my dayplanner/todo (that I don't see mentioned) is all about dumping my brain onto a piece of paper. I've got a pretty good memory, so I don't often forget stuff to do, but if I get too much on my list and I'm trying to remember it all, then it requires a significant mental effort on my part and I get stressed. If I can dump it all down on a list, then I don't have to remember anymore and I feel much more relaxed... I used to do this with scrappy bits of paper before I got my dayplanner, but the planner helps keep it mobile and in one place!