Getting Things Done Flashcards
What are the five stages of the GTD workflow?
Capture, clarify, organize, reflect, and engage.
What is the purpose of the capture stage?
To collect and record all tasks, ideas, and commitments in a trusted system to free mental space and reduce stress.
What is a ubiquitous capture tool?
A tool that can be accessed and used anytime, anywhere, to record tasks and ideas (e.g., smartphone app, notebook, or voice recorder).
During the clarify stage, what question should you ask yourself?
“Is this item actionable?”
What should you do with non-actionable items during the clarify stage?
Trash it, incubate it (maybe/someday list), or store it as reference material.
What are the four possibilities for actionable items in the clarify stage?
- Do it (if it takes less than 2 minutes).
- Delegate it (if someone else can do it).
- Defer it (if it requires more time and scheduling).
- Break it into smaller, actionable steps for a project.
Name three categories for organizing tasks in the GTD method.
- Projects.
- Next actions.
- Calendar.
What is a “waiting for” list?
A list of tasks that you have delegated or those that depend on external factors before they can be completed.
What is the purpose of a weekly review in the GTD method?
To reflect on the current state of your system, review your projects and tasks, and ensure that everything is up-to-date and aligned with your priorities.
What is the purpose of the engage stage in GTD?
To choose and complete tasks based on the context, available time and energy, and priority.
What are context-based lists?
Lists of tasks or next actions that are organized based on specific contexts (e.g., at home, at work, at the computer, or while running errands) so you can easily do tasks when the situation is appropriate.
What is the Two-Minute Rule?
If a task pops up and can be done in two minutes or less, it should be completed immediately, instead of being processed and organized within the GTD system.
Why is it important to capture all tasks and ideas in the GTD method?
To create a reliable external system, reduce cognitive load, and prevent tasks and ideas from being forgotten or overlooked.
What is a “tickler file” in the GTD system?
A tickler file is a physical or digital folder containing time-sensitive reminders or items that are meant to be acted upon on specific future dates.
What are two main tools used for storing reference material in the GTD method?
Digital filing systems (e.g., Google Drive, Evernote, etc.) and physical filing systems (e.g., labeled folders in a filing cabinet).
What is the difference between a “next action” and a “project” in the GTD method?
A “next action” is a single, immediate, and physical task that can be accomplished in one step, while a “project” is a set of tasks or actions that require multiple steps and have a specific desired outcome.
How often should you perform a weekly review in the GTD method?
The weekly review should be done consistently once a week.
Why is it important to turn your tasks into actionable steps in the GTD method?
Transforming tasks into actionable steps clarifies what needs to be done, makes it easier to start working on the task, and avoids procrastination due to vague or unclear objectives.
How does the GTD method suggest handling tasks that require scheduled execution?
Add scheduled tasks to your calendar, including date and time, to prevent them from being overlooked and to allocate appropriate time for completion.
What is the “someday/maybe” list in the GTD method?
A list that contains tasks or ideas that you may want to pursue in the future but are not committed to or currently prioritized.
What are the benefits of using context-based lists in the GTD method?
Context-based lists help you focus on tasks that can be completed given your current circumstances, location, and resources, ultimately leading to greater productivity and efficiency.
Why is delegation an important aspect of the GTD method?
Delegating tasks allows you to focus on your priorities and make effective use of your time and skills, while assigning tasks to others who are more capable or have the necessary resources.