Create tasks and to-do items in Outlook

Microsoft Outlook logo next to text that reads "How to Create tasks and to-do lists"

Many people keep a list of things to do — on paper, in a spreadsheet, or by using a combination of paper and electronic methods. In Outlook, you can combine your various lists into one list, enhanced with reminders and tracking.

To create a task in Outlook do the following:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + K (or select New Items > Task).
  2. In the Subject box, enter a name for the task. It’s best to keep the name short and then add the details in the task body.
  3. If there’s a fixed start or end date, set the Start date or Due date.
  4. Set the task’s priority by using Priority (low, normal, high).
  5. If you want a pop-up reminder, check Reminder, and set the date and time.
  6. Select Task > Save & Close.

To view your tasks press CTRL + 4 and use your left and right arrows to navigate, press Shift + F10 to open the context menu where you can mark a task as complete, assign it, and more.