Are you like me that you prepare your To Do list? For some people, to-do lists are life savers; they keep them organized and on task. For others, they’re useless pieces of paper to ignore as they grow longer and longer. Next time you sit down to write a to-do list (or decide to face up to an existing one), follow these tips:

Break it down.
To-dos are not the same as goals or projects. Only include specific tasks that move a project toward completion. If a to-do list item is too large to get done in one step, break it down further. Include specifics.

Include Details.
Help your future self out by including details that will make doing the task easier. Instead of “Get in touch with Julie,” try “Call Julie about next task force meeting at 123-4567.”

Prioritise.
Not all To Do tasks were created equal. Some may be more urgent than others. Make sure that you do not spend your time on those which are ease but less urgent. Rather concentrate on those which are urgent or important. Allocate sufficient time to complete them.

- This post was based on HBR Tip of the day.