Beginner’s Guide to GTD (Getting Things Done)

In this video, Naomi walks through all the basics of David Allen’s Getting Things Done productivity system (GTD for short.)
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00:00 Intro
01:27 What is GTD?
02:10 Capture
03:05 Clarify
04:10 Organize
07:45 Review
07:53 Engage
08:03 Outro & Bloopers

[@altruologist]

Excellent presentation - I would like to see an actual demo of Todoist set up as you describe each of the elements of the GTD methodology. It really helps to view it implemented in the app.

[@bennnnnnnnnn18]

Agreed!!! Would LOVE that!

[@celiagallegos]

I 100% agree!!!

[@gemgh420]

Would love to have people talking through their Todoist set ups - either those who work at TD or anyone at all who wants to share, I always learn something from seeing set ups

[@davidskeith]

I agree. I came to this video with some demo of set ups. You did that a little in the beginning. With the usefulness of this program I’d love to see it in action with ToDoists functions.

[@thomas_431]

Hi Naomi, thanks for yet another great video. Here are some ideas for future video topics: * Case studies of people using Todoist (not necessarily staff or celebrity-like); so sample setups for specific professions or use cases. * How to tackle 1000+ open tasks. * How to use team workspaces for delegating. * A regular feature which features Todoist hacks, maybe niche tricks. Similar to lifehacks for Todoist. * Spotlights of integrations. * Spotlights of the very most productive Todoist users (highest completed tasks count, longest task streaks,...). * Spotlights of how people use templates and checklists. * A comparison of organizational methods with advantages and disadvantages for specific use cases. * Special projects that occur for many people with tips on how to manage them better - e. g. moving into a new home, organizing a large party,... * Tasks that are to be done periodically by a lot of people, such as specific setups for maintaining health. * Guides on how to create daily routines and habits; could be an implementation of Atomic Habits or something similar.

[@MaartenDeBlock]

"Rebooting your Todoist" after you fell of the wagon for a while would be a great video.

[@jackk8996]

Thanks Naomi, I would like to see some discussion on Tiago Fortes PARA method and how it might be adapted into todoist.

[@vanessanoahubi6875]

I would love to see a more detailed overview of the actual GTD program, cost, etc. Great overview!

[@green-forest-23]

I've never been diagnosed with adhd, I'm psychologist and near friends thinks that I have adhd... Since a couple a years ago, after suffer lots of scolds from some bosses (I usually forgot a lot stuff, trying to trust in my memory...) I started to organize my life with Todoist, and my quality of life improve, I think that I've try to take a lil' bit of each productivity system that I've heard of... The thing about the calendar view is something that I would like to try, is something that I was waiting since time ago.

[@Alex.Varvashenko]

Naomi, thanks for the educational videos! I would like a video about procrastination and techniques for breaking down large tasks.

[@darrenw8010]

I'd Love to see samples of how other people set up their Todoist system, based around office/ field / infrastructure inspections and tick offs

[@melodybarnes5527]

I'd like to see samples of how other people set up their Todoist system, based around different occupations or primary uses.

[@karensmith7385]

Would love to see a deeper dive into GTD!!🎉

[@BigSaaSsolutions]

I love this video. Thank you. I am now going to rewatch this.

[@natalieahlstrom4045]

tried todoist a few years ago and now going back to Getting things done! thanks so much for your videos

[@yonatanbram]

Clear and well presented. will look up the book, thanks

[@Josetta]

This is great! I'm reading GTD and have the basics, but your succinct explanation may actually get my Todoist GTD-ready much faster. Thank you!!

[@JoelCarbonellGonell]

Thanks for the amazing content! I would enjoy a lot a video about priorities on the tasks! I feel that the "next:" system feels really suited on how to prioritize the right things!

[@elenarush6218]

Loved your video. I've used GTD for many years and have looked high and wide for a tool that will make it work. Todoist is the one! I set it up when I started TODOISt but your video added many other quick ways that will help. Thank you.

[@JennyJTaylor]

I have been a huge fan of Todoist for several years now and I'd love to see a video about how to take it to another level as a daily user for personal and work tasks.

[@danielakersting520]

Amazing breakdown! I'd love to see how you use Todoist in context with other tools. Meaning: where do content creators create their content, and how do they organize their tasks; how can a team of developers use Todoist, for example. I guess what I am asking for is more of a case study type breakdown by team type. Keep being awesome!

[@LucasWouda]

Thanks for the video! I would personally love to see what recurring tasks people have set up in their Todoists. From on a daily basis, like meditating and going outside, to weekly and monthly routines such as cleaning the house and taking out the rubbish, all the way to tasks you do on a yearly basis such as paying taxes. I feel like this can be a great system for reminders, and would love some inspiration on how else you can apply this method to get tasks simple and out of your head.

[@DavidStephens0]

Thanks for the video. I've been using GTD for more than 10 years and even I picked up some tips from you that I'm going to try to implement. Keep up the good work! :)

[@starwork715]

Thank you for this video! I've recently discovered GTD and having just finished the book, have been looking for resources to get the system into action. The way you summarize the process here is SO helpful. I've watched the video several times to help get it nailed into my head.

[@user-tv8hf8ce7g]

Great summary of GTD. It would be great to see a Todoist template with all the components of GTD, build in a way that can be modified for specific needs.

[@kathyhernandez8026]

I’ve used GTD on and off for quite some time, but you’ve provided a wonderful and short explanation of how to use it in Todoist!

[@michaelpostell4053]

Appreciate your monthly videos. I'd like to see more about calendar integration.

[@tanmeetsethi8831]

I really appreciated this video and being a new Todoist user, this gave me a great frame to expand on how I use it!

[@zimmerhr]

Excellent video/presentation, I now have a clear picture on how to setup GTD.

[@amad3u5]

Great introduction to GTD for the todoist users and everybody! Thanks!

[@Ditispeter]

I would like to know how you handle a lot of open tasks. How to tackle procrastination and what's the best way to do a Weekly Review in Todoist.

[@abdallajws]

thanks for sharing this information , it was usualful and informative session.

[@MrSteviep01]

Hi Naomi loved ❤the video very informative. I would love to see you cover the topic of the high productivity mindset

[@ginamarieagosta]

This was a great overview of GTD. I've been using a modified version of this with Todoist for years now. I agree with some of the other comments that it would be great to see a tour(s) of how others set up and use Todoist.

[@MariAvo8]

Informative video as usual. Would like to see more ways with incorporating analog + Todoist, best use cases.

[@kelly_sroka_life]

I used to use GTD many years ago. I'm getting back to it and Todoist again.

[@RubyBlueCreative]

Great overview of GTD. I've read the book and had previously implemented a paper-based system. Only recently signed up to try a digital system and am loving what Todoist can do in this space. I'd like to see a comparison of different people's GTD Todoist setups and have them explain how they use it, like a walk through, but all in the one concise, straight to the point video. I love seeing how other people integrate GTD into Todoist. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@mark7youtube]

GTD is a great book.I incorporate it in my Todoist workflow. A video on a friendly debate between different productivity systems, or someone who has tried a few different productivity systems and can really go into the pros and cons of each one relative to one another.

[@SuzyTaylorOakley]

I just found you after deciding to give Todoist another try. I look forward to more of your content!

[@MrRiccardodante]

in the calendar view: being able to assign a color to different projects so as to have a more intuitive view of the calendar.

[@yuli3873]

Todoist changed my life.

[@juanmanuelsalinas4833]

muy bueno! a poner orden y limpiar la cabeza!

[@sakeyan]

I was able to understand the key points of implementing GTD with Todoist. I'm increasingly looking forward to boosting my productivity using Todoist.

[@mmaxime]

Todoist is a game changer, more and more after years :)

[@traedstone]

Helpfull, thank you.

[@omerbin3011]

Great video, thanks!!

[@doughall6045]

Hi Naomi, thanks for the video. I'd love to see actual setups of the methods that people are using to get beyond theory along with pros/cons of each. Or maybe synergistic uses of multiple methods. Whatever the case, keep the bloopers!

[@nrussell18]

Love these videos and definitely a video taking a deep diving into Filters?

[@Girish.Karnad]

Thanks Naomi for an excellent overview of the GTD system. I would like to see a few examples of how some expert Todoist users have set up their system. For instance, when to use projects and when to use labels. Or when to use just tasks and sub-tasks. I have not used labels so far in my Todoist setup. Most of my Todoist setup is based on my own understanding and convenience.

[@Raroh24]

Gr8 video. I would like to know how to best use filters in GTD. Thks

[@mariyataghiyeva6348]

I like your pronunciation and it makes me to listen again and again.

[@user-mq9yz8cr4b]

This was a great video. I've had GTD on my reader for a year, and did not manage to pass the first pages, it seemed so complex a method. I really appreciate your breaking it down to simpler points. I've used the Bullet journal method for several years, and this year I've combined it with Todoist and it worked beautifully. Your tips will help me take my practice a level up. I would so love an access to premium. I'm using it for work mainly but my boss is not ready to pay yet. I'll tell her about the monthly calendar and maybe that'll bring some results ! I would love some content on procrastination.

[@jplutchok]

Thank you for that great cogent summary of GTD. I've been using my own lazified version of GTD with Todoist and a few other tools for many years, but still benefit from a reminder of the main principles from time to time to prevent me from straying too far. :-)

[@wowKitch]

Love the overview, thank you for sharing! I would love to see you implement this in Todoist :)

[@sakinasalem2759]

Loving these videos. I would love to see how we can use todoist to plan events that need to be done multiple times a day.. and how to set up todoist when tasks have multiple labels as well.

[@leahlund2920]

Thank you for this video! Just finished the GTD audiobook and needed a clear recap. I'd love to know how people use todoist to help with exectutive function and staying motivated to complete tasks outside of checking off lists. I need all the reinforcement systems!

[@xavis8295]

Thanks! Excellent intro to GTD. I'd love to see examples on how to handle recurrent tracks and "strikes". I've seen some unofficial extensions to support this, but they mess with the description or have some sort of cons

[@user-cp1wn3qg8e]

What would be very helpful for me is a video on moving from another app (eg Things or Reminders) to Todoist. Not so much the export/import process, but more some advice about what to consider when first re-organising your (say) 200+ tasks in a way that will work best for the user in Todoist. Thank you!

[@joeblack5638]

Hey I'm liking the videos as they are, a wide array of topics. Other productivity methods can be one idea.

[@carolinecooreman7726]

Nice refresh video on GTD. Would love to see also a review of connecting the use of Todoist with the book Deep Work, or better how todoist can help you to focus.

[@brystonulrich6766]

Good summary of GTD. would be helpful to see a full TD set up with more detailed examples!

[@MrBobbylurve]

Would be great to see suggestions on daily routines and habit trackers that doesn’t mean the task list becomes overwhelming Each day. Or how best to manage personal (for example) morning routines versus critical priorities at work

[@roccorende5680]

Very interesting video as always! One thing I would like to see on video could be how to actually follow the tasks you planned to do and don't skip or postpone them

[@ramysami]

Great video as usual I would like a video about attention management

[@mavruwa]

Thank you!

[@bhav9229]

Thanks for a brilliant video! For us first-time GTD'ers, would love to get a case study of how someone has set up their system. For example, labels, categories, sections and colours. Ideally a 1 slide summary of the system, so that I can go copy/paste it. I'd also love more Todoist integrations - e.g. if I click on the icon on my Chrome, it will autograb the hyperlink I'm on (rather like a bookmark). Easy add to the my inbox. Thanks

[@deckard2462]

It would be great to learn more about best practices for the Review phase. For example, two different approaches illustrating how two different people review their backlog, what they do on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis, etc.

[@ramysami]

Thanks for the great video

[@MarcusAlsterfjord]

Great video!

[@paulogamer4644]

Aqui sou do Brazil...Amo o Todoist, uso a anos, junto com a metodologia GTD, onde mais gosto é a "próxima ação". Abraço ..bye

[@LOOrganizingVideos]

Great video! I would also love to see the demo of the exact setup people are using. I've used GTD methodology for years (sporadically). Inspire me! :)

[@Jjewelsea]

Thanks for this! Any recommendations from GTD on how routine tasks fit into this system?

[@tedgale6011]

A good summary of GTD (I was using GTD for years, and acquired Todoist to manage GTD as my "next actions" were outpacing my paper and pen based system). i would like to see (1) a discussion of how (and why) to limit "due dates," (2) a discussion of using Todoist in conjuction with note taking systems (e.g. OneNote or Evernote); and (3) (as others have) examples of how various people (in various professions) appy the principles of GTD in using Todoist.

[@halfSpinDoctor]

Suggestion for a future topic: - The Todoist team have lots of great examples for comprehensive systems for using their tool to create productivity systems -- the GTD method being one of the most popular and most common. However, in addition to walkthroughs and tutorials for how to create complex systems, I would love to see tips for how to *simplify* your todoist setup. For example, you pointed out that you prefer to use sub-tasks rather than projects for next steps. Other tips like these for how to keep the system simple but still effective would be really helpful. I am trying to keep my Todoist as simple as possible so that I can always look at my main Home and Work lists and see the "10-thousand foot view" of everything I have going on.

[@user-cs7om9hx9x]

Thanks for the informative but concise videos. I'd love a video on how to review how we use Todoist and if there are changes to implement to be more productive, how to back up in such a way that if we make dramatic changes we could restore it and possibly try another option (virtual machines with our Todoist account???)

[@leiflife]

I really enjoyed the video, and I'd too love to have more guidance/details on an actual GTD set up of TD.

[@rfbaylon]

Would love to see a vid on some of the most useful filters you could use for this set up!

[@TAlexDes]

Interesting video, well structured. The GTD system is very useful. I would like to see the Todoist interface shown a little more and how to do in it what you say in the video. I’ve been using Todoist for a long time and would like to try the pro version. Thank you.

[@leoandthelamb]

Thanks Naomi. Like many others have said here, I'd also like to see more case studies and demonstrations of actual ToDoist setups

[@celineclemi]

I would love to see this method applied with specific examples how you could organise this in todoist. This video sparked my interest but I couldn't quite tell what to do next to implement that. I would definitely prefer to watch longer videos with more details.

[@Booboochacha666]

This is a user's review and question from Taiwan.😍 This is an excellent video that has taught me how to maximize the benefits of using Todoist through a systematic mindset. I'm curious to learn more about the physiological and psychological aspects. After organizing tasks using GTD concepts, how can one achieve the most sustainable state of "focus" management on a personal level? We all want to accomplish as many tasks as possible, but as humans, our mental energy is limited. How can I maintain vitality for my loved ones and friends after work?

[@Smashq]

Another great video Naomi. You dabbled a little into your workflow, but I would like to understand more how you and the rest of the team use Todoist to get things done. How do you handle follow ups, email, tasks, etc. Keep up the work

[@agoyak1]

Thank you for another uber-practical video, Naomi. Would love to see how others set up their Todoist to maximize getting things done for themselves and for others.

[@jennybiller7580]

I'd love a video about using Todoist to help your partner complete projects around the house and yard. 🙃

[@juancarloshurtadoulloa9997]

Good video. I would like to see more examples about labels, using more complex cases

[@ismamag4789]

Thank you!!!!

[@brenthoward4359]

Since there's no 'end date' feature, I'd love to see a video explaining a workaround. Thanks for the great GTD video!

[@scholar-shield]

Thank you for this helpful summary. I like GTD very much. As an idea for other videos, I would like to see ways to implement Todoist using Kanban methodology for project management. I have over 30 long-term work projects to keep track of, and seeing where they are in my pipeline would be super helpful.

[@VickiStearn]

Thank you! Love ToDoist.

[@alexiawagner2514]

Thank you so much. I am currently indeed overwhelmed...and I would like to kindly ask if you could do an absolute beginner presentation and demo? Thank you

[@kerrypatrick7702]

Great presentation. I would like to see a deep dive into the Capture step, particularly how you can use integrations to capture on the go. I lost my voice assistant integration with Google a couple years back and have never found a good voice replacement.

[@Lapwing52]

Hi Naomi, great video again! I would like to see more about tasks in combination with subtasks and maybe some explanation why a main task is not automatically completed is all the subtasks are completed.

[@larsonstudios]

I don't know if this helps, but I can tell you why I like that main tasks are not completed when all sub-tasks are completed. For me, a lot of times when I've completed all the sub-tasks of a main task, it doesn't necessarily mean that I'm completely done with the main task, only that I've completed all the CURRENT sub-tasks. There may be more sub-tasks, and I just don't know them yet, or haven't had time to think it all through. I often also have notes in the comments or links that I might need to save someplace else before I actually complete the task, even though all the sub-tasks are done.

[@darinelgomez1]

I would like to see a video combining GTD and the Eisenhower matrix. More specifically on how to address the "urgent"/ "important" things that come up during the day, that are not necessarily Next Actions for your projects.

[@julie-anneohagan9888]

Thanks for the video! I would love to see a case study of someone using Todoist to manage work and home responsibilities. Something like 'a day in the life of...'

[@spencerrevely1195]

Great videos! My biggest challenge comes with prioritizing my tasks. I prioritize my tasks with a modified Eisenhower grid: 1) Important and Urgent 2) Important and Non-Urgent 3) Non-Important and Urgent. My problem is that category 2 piles up and I begin to not put anything in there because it's so full, so then I being to put (what should really be) category 2 items into category 1 items so that I make sure I get to them in a reasonable amount of time. So, of course, my category 1 fills up as well and the system ceases to function well. Any recommendations on how to handle this better?

[@omarsabateen7074]

Thanks for the video

[@NealDench]

Great video - it reminded me of some of the elements of GTD that I’ve let slip by the wayside! I was interested in your comment about preferring subtasks to projects. I’m currently transitioning from Things (which only has projects), and I’d be interested in seeing anything that offers advice as to when subtasks are a good alternative to projects. My gut feeling is to keep the projects list simple - perhaps limited only to areas of focus - and to use subtasks for everything else, but is there some middle path that makes sense? What are the advantages of using subtasks over projects and vice versa? I think I already know the answers to some of these things, but I’d be interested in seeing the official Todoist take on this.

[@alexandraholland36]

A video related to how people with ADHD can benefit from Todoist would be great!

[@dougconely1331]

Hi Naomi, thanks for this. Around 3:39, on sorting the inbox, you said something like "attach it to the comments of the relevant task." I often find myself trying to do this but end up copying and pasting. Were you saying there is a drag and drop way to do this? You don't show in the video and I can't find anything in the help files. Can you point me in the right direction?

[@GalvanicFantasyYT]

I'd love to see a demo of how you would set up the GTD system in todoist where the walkthrough of what that would look like in action.

[@CleverApps]

It is time to revisit the GDT book

[@eniafeenianu272]

I will love to see a demo using G.T.D