Microsoft Day Planner: Mastering the Essentials

Are you new to Microsoft's day planner or looking for a refresher on its features? Look no further! This article will walk you through the basics of using the Microsoft day planner, including how to switch between classic and beta versions, manage your tasks, and make the most out of its various lists.

Switching Between Classic and Beta Versions

If you've recently switched to the classic Tasks version, you can easily switch back by toggling the Try the beta option at the top of the Tasks page. Conversely, if you're currently using the new Tasks, you can revert back to the classic version by selecting The new Tasks toggle on the To Do page.

Customizing Your Task Experience

From the To Do page, select Settings to access a range of options for managing your tasks. You'll find settings specific to To Do on their own dedicated page. One notable setting is the Flagged Email list, which can be turned on or off by going to Tasks > Settings > Connections and adjusting the slider.

What's New in Tasks

When you flag an email in Mail, it will automatically copy over as a task in your Flagged Email list. This optional list is only accessible when you assign a reminder or due date to an existing task. Any new tasks created with a reminder or due date will automatically appear on this list.

Smart Lists for Efficient Task Management

The Microsoft day planner features several Smart Lists designed to help you prioritize and manage your tasks more effectively:

1. Planned: This list includes tasks that have a reminder or due date but haven't been marked as complete.

2. Important: Mark important tasks by right-clicking on them and selecting Mark as important, or use the star icon next to each task.

3. Suggestions: This list features tasks that are due today or in the future, overdue, previously moved to My Day without completion, or relevant for starting work.

Making the Most of My Day

My Day is a unique feature that allows you to add suggested tasks from various lists. To access Suggestions, go to My Day and select the Suggested Tasks button at the top of the page. You can then add these tasks to My Day by selecting the plus sign (+) next to each item.

1. Switch between classic and beta versions of Microsoft's day planner.

2. Customize your task experience with settings on the To Do page.

3. Use Smart Lists like Planned, Important, and Suggestions to prioritize tasks.

4. Make the most out of My Day by adding suggested tasks and clearing it at midnight every night.

By mastering these essentials, you'll be well on your way to maximizing the benefits of Microsoft's day planner and staying organized and productive.