How to use the To-Do List
- Type a task in the input box and press Enter or click Add. If the task has a deadline, pick a due date too.
- When you finish a task, click the checkbox on the left to mark it done. The progress bar and the count update right away.
- To change a task, click Edit or double-click the task. Press Enter to save or Esc to cancel.
- Use the Active and Done views to filter your list. Click Clear completed to remove finished tasks.
How to Get More Out of a To-Do List
- One action per task: "Project proposal" is vague. "Outline the project proposal" starts with a verb, so you know exactly what to do first and you're less likely to put it off.
- 3 to 5 key tasks a day: A very long list can make you feel like you're falling behind. Put the tasks you must finish today at the top.
- Break big jobs into small steps: If each step takes 30 minutes or less, you get to check things off more often, and your progress is easier to see.
- Add due dates: Overdue tasks turn red, so they're hard to miss.
Tools That Work Well with Your To-Do List
After you plan your tasks, you need time to do them. The Pomodoro timer lets you work in focused 25-minute blocks while you clear your list one task at a time. That makes it easier to stick to your plan for the day. For anything with an important date, like an exam or a project launch, the countdown calculator shows how many days you have left. For longer notes and ideas, use the online notepad.
Where Is My List Saved?
You don't need an account because your list is kept in your browser's local storage. If you come back in the same browser on the same device, your list will still be there. In some cases, though, it won't show up:
| Situation | Is your list still there? |
|---|---|
| Coming back in the same browser | Yes |
| Using a different browser or device | No, it won't appear |
| Private or incognito window | It's deleted when you close the window |
| Clearing site data or cookies in your browser | It's deleted |
Nothing you type is sent to Tooljip's servers. That means you can add personal plans and appointments without worrying about privacy.
How to Prioritize Tasks (The Eisenhower Matrix)
When your list is long, don't treat every task the same. Sort each one by importance and by urgency. This popular time-management method is named after U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
| Urgent | Not urgent | |
|---|---|---|
| Important | Do it now Assignments due soon, urgent work | Schedule it Exercise, studying, long-term projects |
| Not important | Reduce or delegate Most messages and small chores | Drop it Aimless web browsing |
In the Tooljip to-do list, give your "Do it now" tasks a due date. If one becomes overdue, it gets highlighted. For "Schedule it" tasks, set a target date with the countdown calculator so you can keep working toward it.