How to use Review

In this article we do not explain how to use this functionality correctly, since there is no right or wrong way. But we try to convey the general idea of the Review functionality, so that you understand it and then decide whether you need to implement it in your task management system.

 

Define problem

While you are busy with the most urgent and important tasks, other tasks are constantly ignored, at least because you have not decided whether to do them at all. And if to do, then what exactly is needed for this. These are exactly the tasks (ideas, plans, and suspended projects) for which you should use the "Review" view.

Got a new Inbox item and don't know what to do with it next? Just ask yourself: can I delay making a decision? If yes, hide it in To-Do and add to Review. No need to set dates and reminders.

Set up and Use

For a task to appear in the Review, you need to set the corresponding property: 

 

For each task or group of tasks, you can customize a Review mode. You don’t have to go through the list from start to finish every week looking for something to put into action, as in the classic Getting Things Done. You can set the most suitable parameters.  

Your day may start with the views Active Actions and Review. If you see that it’s time to do the task from Review – make it active. If not, click "Mark Reviewed" to move the review to the next date (in the task list area or in the properties):

What and when to review

• Long-term goals (annual goals) should only be reviewed at the end of the year when you are doing strategic planning.
• Large purchases can be reviewed once a month to help you plan your budget for the next month. There is no need to review this list every week.
• Ideas for summer vacation can be set for review within a certain period, starting from the end of spring. There is no point in deciding on them in winter.
• Suspended projects that can be activated at any time are recommended to be added to the daily Review so that you can keep them under control.

Tip: If you're worried about forgetting to open Review, create a task like “Do my Friday task review”. Or just keep track of the task counter in the "Review” view.

Basic principles of using the Review

1. Do not keep in the same lists actionable items and undefined plans. Use Active Actions for the first, and Review for the second.

2. Do not lose a single worthwhile thought and idea. Note down everything you might need in the future and periodically review, asking the question: "Isn't it time to do this?"

3. Create clear criteria for the task to be placed in Review. Distinguish between a not yet started project and a rough idea from the "Someday / Maybe" folder.

4. Besides, you need to know how to deal with the reviewed task.

 

Tip: If you’ve decided to turn a task from Review into a to-do task, it is best to move it to the Inbox folder first. And then you can deal with it as with a new one: add properties (do not forget to uncheck the box for “hide in To-Do”), create subtasks, move to another folder, etc.

The Review functionality can help you keep your to-do list neat and up-to-date.