{"id":6275,"date":"2019-02-07T15:39:09","date_gmt":"2019-02-07T13:39:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/?p=6275"},"modified":"2023-11-28T02:00:00","modified_gmt":"2023-11-28T00:00:00","slug":"eisenhower-matrix","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/eisenhower-matrix\/","title":{"rendered":"Eisenhower Matrix &#8211; Prioritize and Manage Time Better"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The Eisenhower is a task management tool that helps you improve productivity by teaching you <strong>how to prioritize better<\/strong>. This technique helps you learn which activities are worth your time and effort and which ones aren\u2019t.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And in a world where we all rush to keep up with our schedules \u2014 one must admit it is a skill worth improving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stay put because in this text, you will find out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What the Eisenhower matrix is (thorough explanation accompanied with multiple examples \u2014 both work and every day related),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How to use the Eisenhower matrix, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How to think in quadrants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eisenhower-matrix-cover.jpg\" alt=\"Eisenhower matrix - cover\" class=\"wp-image-20816\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eisenhower-matrix-cover.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eisenhower-matrix-cover-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eisenhower-matrix-cover-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Eisenhower-matrix-cover-18x9.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-is-the-eisenhower-matrix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the Eisenhower matrix?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Eisenhower matrix, also known as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eisenhower.me\/eisenhower-matrix\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Urgent-important matrix<\/a>, is a tool that helps you improve your <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-tasks\/reprioritizing-tasks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">task prioritization skills<\/a>. By incorporating the Eisenhower matrix into your daily life, you learn to recognize your biggest priorities and differentiate between those that have a long-term impact from those that don\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Set your priorities with Clockify<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Eisenhower matrix is a perfect ally when it comes to understanding how to think in quadrants, as it \u2018divides your brain\u2019 and helps you distinguish between:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Important,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unimportant,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Urgent, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Non-urgent tasks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In practice, the time management matrix looks like this:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1005\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Eisenhower-matrix-grid.png\" alt=\"Eisenhower matrix grid\" class=\"wp-image-18155\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Eisenhower-matrix-grid.png 1200w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Eisenhower-matrix-grid-300x251.png 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Eisenhower-matrix-grid-752x630.png 752w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Eisenhower-matrix-grid-768x643.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Eisenhower-matrix-grid-14x12.png 14w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The matrix serves as a prioritization tool rather than one for scheduling. So you will not see any timetables or deadlines here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"a-brief-history-of-the-eisenhower-matrix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">A brief history of the Eisenhower matrix<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It was Dwight D. Eisenhower who first developed and used the said time and task management method. Eisenhower was the 34th president of the United States who was in search of a method that would help him prioritize and make tough decisions regarding his numerous tasks \u2014 both as a general in the US Army, NATO\u2019s supreme commander, and later the US president.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Only later was this method popularized thanks to Steven Covey, presenting it in his book <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.goodreads.com\/book\/show\/36072.The_7_Habits_of_Highly_Effective_People\" target=\"_blank\"><em>The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People<\/em><\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the book, Covey discussed the idea of the Four Generations of Time Management, which we\u2019ll later discuss in this text.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"the-elements-of-the-eisenhower-matrix-explained\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">The elements of the Eisenhower matrix \u2014 explained<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As an easily workable task management tool, the Eisenhower matrix helps you prioritize your tasks by putting them in the right <em>quadrants<\/em>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That may be something urgent\/important (\u201cdo it now\u201d quadrant), something trivial but still urgent (\u201cdelegate it to someone else\u201d quadrant), etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you are able to categorize your tasks like this, it becomes much easier for you to schedule and complete them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a look at the following section that\u2019ll help you understand how those quadrants work in practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-are-the-4-time-quadrants\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the 4 time quadrants?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When using the Eisenhower matrix, you sort the tasks from your to-do list into 4 groups. These groups are called <em>quadrants<\/em> because they are arranged in a grid:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Quadrant number #1 \u2014 Important\/urgent tasks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quadrant number #2 \u2014 Important\/non-urgent tasks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quadrant number #3 \u2014 Unimportant\/urgent tasks, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quadrant number #4 \u2014 Unimportant\/non-urgent tasks.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>For some, sorting tasks seems easy and maybe obvious from the get-go. However, a lot of the time, people mix up these 4 quadrants or find it difficult to distinguish where a task should go. Additionally, priorities will differ from person to person. While career growth may be crucial for some \u2014 starting a family may be more important to others.To properly apply the Eisenhower matrix rules and minimize chances for mistakes \u2014 we strongly suggest looking at the following section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"the-difference-between-urgent-and-important-tasks\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">The difference between URGENT and IMPORTANT tasks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e5f6fe\"><em>\u201cI have two kinds of problems: the urgent and the important. The urgent are not important, and the important are never urgent.\u201d<\/em> \u2013 Dwight D. Eisenhower<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you learn to make a distinction between urgent and important tasks \u2014 using the matrix in practice will come naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"urgent-tasks\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Urgent tasks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Urgent tasks<\/strong> need to be dealt with as soon as possible. They are time-sensitive and sometimes stressful, as they need our immediate attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think of studying for an exam you\u2019ve forgotten about or trying to get an injured friend to a hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"important-tasks\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important tasks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I<strong>mportant tasks, <\/strong>on the other hand<strong>,<\/strong> allow you to take a step back, analyze your situation, and plan your next move. They\u2019re not time-sensitive, so there is no pressure when completing such tasks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Important tasks are those that concern your life goals, core values, etc. Starting a family, for example, planning a trip or a workout routine to get healthier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1<strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you know that there\u2019s more to setting goals than it meets the eye? The answer lies in setting SMART goals \u2014 as in Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Learn more about how to set SMART goals here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/smart-goals\/\" target=\"_blank\">How to set SMART goals (+ examples and templates)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>How many times have you heard someone can\u2019t get their work done because they keep \u201cputting out small fires\u201d? If we focus only on time-sensitive tasks, we won\u2019t see farther than what lies tomorrow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"how-do-i-know-whats-urgent-and-whats-important-for-me\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I know what\u2019s urgent and what\u2019s important for me?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There is no universal formula we can all follow. To know which tasks are important and which are urgent to you, we advise you to <strong>make a list<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find many <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/to-do-list-templates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">to-do list templates<\/a> on our Clockify page, one of which should be perfect for you. Clockify to-do list templates help you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Write down your core values, ideals, and life goals, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Think of the milestones you need to reach by carefully focusing on what matters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To-do lists may serve as a perfect solution for recognizing and reminding yourself of what you are working for \u2014 money, security, career, providing for the family. After you create a detailed list (or lists) of the tasks at hand, you\u2019ll have a deeper understanding of such tasks \u2014 their importance and urgency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-place-tasks-into-the-4-quadrants\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to place tasks into the 4 quadrants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that we\u2019ve explained the urgent and important distinction, let\u2019s see how they apply to tasks and activities. We\u2019ll be using some common, everyday examples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"quadrant-1-do-important-and-urgent-tasks\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quadrant #1: \u201cDo\u201d \u2013 Important and urgent tasks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>These are the tasks that have a strict, very close time limit and might have consequences if not addressed immediately. For example, a math test is an urgent task for a student, and most other things will come secondary to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Examples of important and urgent tasks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tasks with a very close deadline<\/strong> \u2014 Finishing a client project, putting out a small fire, a burst pipe,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Last-minute obligations<\/strong> \u2014 Something you\u2019ve been putting off and now you\u2019re in a rush to finish it (meeting your deadline, for instance), or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tasks you can\u2019t postpone<\/strong> \u2014 Family or work obligations, unannounced visitors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"quadrant-2-decide-important-but-not-urgent-tasks\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quadrant #2: \u201cDecide\u201d \u2013 Important but not urgent tasks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The second quadrant is for items that don\u2019t have a close time limit, but they require future planning since they bring you long-term benefits. Think of decisions like wanting to lose weight, reading more, signing up for a course, etc. They are important for your well-being, but not critical, so they are usually pushed aside in favor of urgent tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More examples of important and not urgent tasks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Short-term or long-term business goals<\/strong> \u2014 creating a business <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/help\/projects\/project-budget\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">budget<\/a>, creating a sales <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/forecasting-models\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">forecast<\/a>, planning a new marketing campaign, etc.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Career goals<\/strong> \u2014 getting a promotion, shifting into a new career path, gaining a new skill set, planning to start a business, etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Personal goals<\/strong> \u2014 improving relationships, starting a family, recreation, healthy eating, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear in mind that putting off important tasks every time something urgent comes up runs the risk of making <em>them<\/em> urgent down the line.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, if a person puts off eating healthy for years because other things get in the way, health complications like obesity or diabetes will suddenly make it an urgent priority. Or, if you don\u2019t create a financial plan for the following year, you might suffer serious consequences such as accumulating debts, overspending, no money for emergencies, and similar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1<strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In order to learn how to set career goals successfully, we\u2019ve provided the following blog post on that matter, together with real-life examples of both short-term and long-term goals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/career-goals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Setting career goals to create a better future for yourself (with examples)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"quadrant-3-delegate-urgent-but-not-important-tasks\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quadrant #3: \u201cDelegate\u201d \u2013 Urgent but not important tasks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Such tasks are time-bound, but considering they are not relevant to you \u2014 you may delegate them to others. For example, asking a coworker to <a href=\"https:\/\/slidemodel.com\/how-to-make-a-presentation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">create a PowerPoint presentation<\/a> or to take notes for you during a meeting because you have some emergency work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other examples of urgent and unimportant tasks (also referred to as interruptions or distractions):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Work-related issues<\/strong> \u2014 setting up meetings, answering emails, scheduling certain appointments, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Household obligations <\/strong>\u2014 grocery shopping, house chores, paying the bills, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1<strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read the following blog post and learn about some easy-to-implement tips on how to stay focused at work and eliminate distractions:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/stay-focused-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to focus better at work: 20 effective ways to stay focused<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"quadrant-4-eliminate-unimportant-and-not-urgent-tasks\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quadrant #4: \u201cEliminate\u201d \u2013 Unimportant and not urgent tasks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The final quadrant contains items and activities that are not in any way important or urgent. They have very little to no long-term benefit for your career, life, or health. Some examples could be channel surfing in the afternoon, gossiping at work, mindlessly browsing the Internet, and similar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some examples of unimportant and not urgent tasks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Time wasters <\/strong>\u2014 Checking (spending time on) social media, unimportant emails or meetings, etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pleasant activities only <\/strong>\u2014 While rest is important, too many fun activities can have a counter-effect. Some of them need to be eliminated to leave room for important activities. Such activities include taking long breaks from work, playing games, scrolling through social media, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Important to note \u2014 fourth quadrant activities are considered <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/workplace-distractions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">interruptions<\/a> that feel urgent but have no way of contributing to our daily life or future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-weigh-your-priorities-in-the-matrix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to weigh your priorities in the matrix<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It may seem hard to distinguish between important and unimportant tasks or urgent and non-urgent ones, however, the following section will assist you in prioritizing and weighing your tasks at hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a look at the time management matrix cheat sheet below. It can help you identify which tasks you should prioritize and which ones you should delegate or even eliminate from your to-do list.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1403\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/The-time-management-matrix-cheat-sheet.png\" alt=\"The time management matrix cheat-sheet\" class=\"wp-image-18156\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/The-time-management-matrix-cheat-sheet.png 1200w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/The-time-management-matrix-cheat-sheet-257x300.png 257w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/The-time-management-matrix-cheat-sheet-539x630.png 539w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/The-time-management-matrix-cheat-sheet-768x898.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/The-time-management-matrix-cheat-sheet-10x12.png 10w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that only <em>you<\/em> can know which tasks are important for you, and which ones aren\u2019t. Ask yourself:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e5f6fe\">\u201c<em>What do I need to do right away?<\/em>\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e5f6fe\">\u201c<em>What is wasteful and needs to be eliminated?\u201d<\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e5f6fe\"><em>\u201cWhich tasks do I need to do, and which ones can someone do for me?\u201d&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This way, you can<em> <\/em>determine your priorities with ease by grouping your tasks according to difficulty or urgency, and eliminating distractions once and for all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your focus during this process should be on WHAT instead of WHEN. Scheduling comes easier once you know your priorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1<strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are eager to find out how to make a perfect work schedule and ensure everything goes as planned, read the following blog post on creating a workable schedule + make use of the free work schedule templates we\u2019ve prepared for you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/schedule-employee-time\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to make a work schedule (+ work schedule templates)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that we know that the time management matrix is actually a tool for a better understanding of your activities, let\u2019s move on to its actual use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-does-the-eisenhower-matrix-work-examples\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does the Eisenhower matrix work? (+ examples)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The best way to understand how the matrix works is by looking at an everyday example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, Julie is the head project manager in a medium-sized company. She handles a heavy workload each day, has a family and tries to live and eat healthy on top of all that. It sounds like a lot, but by applying the matrix, she knows where her priorities are and how to work around changes to her plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark clockify-gradient-features\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Make a work schedule with Clockify<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Time tracking software used by millions. Clockify by CAKE.com is a time tracker and timesheet app that lets you track work hours across projects.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/apps\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/clockify\/features@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/clockify\/features.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<p>To start off, let\u2019s say that Julie\u2019s schedule looks like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>Thursday, Feb 6th<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Julie\u2019s tasks and activities<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>8 a.m. \u2013 9 a.m.<\/td><td>Stand-up meeting + emails<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9 a.m. \u2013 11 a.m.<\/td><td>Project progress, reports, and analyses<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.<\/td><td>Lunch<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11:30 a.m. \u2013 11:45 a.m.<\/td><td>Call Kevin Smith to ask about the school field trip next week<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>12:00 p.m. \u2013 2:05 p.m.<\/td><td>Client meeting\/setting the groundwork for the new project<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2:05 p.m. \u2013 2:20 p.m.<\/td><td>Coffee break + visit Sarah in her new office!<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2:20 p.m. \u2013 4:00 p.m.<\/td><td>Staff meeting about the project<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4:30 p.m. \u2013 5:00 p.m.<\/td><td>Take Jamey to the pediatrician for a check-up&nbsp;(fingers crossed he\u2019s recovered!)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5:30 p.m. \u2013 6:30 p.m.<\/td><td>Work out<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6:30 p.m. \u2013 7:30 p.m.<\/td><td>Shower + dinner<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>7:30 p.m. \u2013 9:00 p.m.<\/td><td>Spend time with the kids<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9:30 p.m. \u2013 10:00 p.m.<\/td><td>New episode of Grey\u2019s Anatomy!<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>On its own, it looks fairly well planned out. However, Julie knows that there are chances that the schedule will change, so every morning she reminds herself of that to avoid stressing out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As expected, by the end of the day, Julie\u2019s schedule ended up a little different. She had to make several adjustments to her tasks by applying the time management matrix to her tasks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The ones in orange were put off for later,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ones in green were delegated, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ones in red were eliminated from the schedule.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how the adjusted schedule looks now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>Thursday, Feb 6th<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Julie\u2019s tasks and activities<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>8 a.m. \u2013 9 a.m.<\/td><td>Stand-up meeting + emails<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9 a.m. \u2013 11 a.m.<\/td><td>Project progress, reports, and analyses<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.<\/td><td>Lunch<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11:30 a.m. \u2013 11:45 a.m.<\/td><td>Call Kevin Smith to ask about the school field trip next week<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>12 p.m. \u2013 2:05 p.m.<\/td><td>Client meeting \/ setting the groundwork for the new project<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2:05 p.m. \u2013 2:20 p.m.<\/td><td>Coffee break + visit Sarah in her new office!<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2:20 p.m. \u2013 4 p.m.<\/td><td>Staff meeting about the project<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4:30 p.m. \u2013 5 p.m.<\/td><td>Take Jamey to the pediatrician for a check-up&nbsp;(fingers crossed he\u2019s recovered!)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5 pm. \u2013 5:20 p.m.<\/td><td>Groceries<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5:30 p.m. \u2013 6:30 p.m.<\/td><td>Work out<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6:30 p.m. \u2013 7:30 p.m.<\/td><td>Shower + dinner<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>7:30 p.m. \u2013 9 p.m.<\/td><td>Spend time with the kids<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9:30 p.m. \u2013 10 p.m.<\/td><td>New episode of Grey\u2019s Anatomy!<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"how-did-julie-apply-the-eisenhower-matrix-to-her-work-schedule\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How did Julie apply the Eisenhower matrix to her work schedule?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is how Julie applied the time management matrix to prioritize her work-related tasks and activities:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>8 a.m. \u2013 9 a.m. changes in the schedule<\/strong>: She didn\u2019t manage to get to the emails in the morning, as the stand-up meeting revealed some issues in the QA department. <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-tasks\/brainstorming-techniques\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Brainstorming<\/a> a solution was more important than the emails, so she labeled them as something to catch up with tomorrow.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>12 p.m. \u2013 2:05 p.m. changes in the schedule<\/strong>: The client she was supposed to meet at noon came half an hour earlier. Since she knew that her son\u2019s field trip was far off enough, she called the teacher later during the day. Not wanting to make her client wait, she moved the meeting to 11:30 a.m., and the phone call to when she gets home later.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>2:20 p.m. \u2013 4 p.m. changes in the schedule<\/strong>: At around 4 p.m., project-related tasks required immediate attention. However, her son had been sick for a while, so she needed to take him for a check-up. She delegated the task of running the meeting to her most trustworthy coworker. She could ask for a rundown the next day.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"how-did-julie-apply-the-eisenhower-matrix-to-her-everyday-schedule\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How did Julie apply the Eisenhower matrix to her everyday schedule?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from having to deal with changes in her work schedule, she had to do some personal planning and adjusting, too:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>5 p.m. \u2013 5:20 p.m. changes in the schedule<\/strong>: Since Julie and her son had to wait a little longer for the check-up, she asked her husband to do the grocery shopping because they might not make it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>5:30 p.m. \u2013 6:30 p.m. changes in the schedule<\/strong>: Julie decided to reschedule her workout to video chat with some of the staff that stayed after work. Helping them finish up so they could go home was more important and urgent than her exercise today.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>9:30 p.m. \u2013 10 p.m. changes in the schedule<\/strong>: By 9:30 p.m., Julie was exhausted from all the activities and tasks she had to tackle during the day. Knowing sleep would do her much better than TV at that moment, she decided not to watch the show and go to bed immediately.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As we can see from Julie\u2019s example, the time management matrix is there to teach us how to make easier calls concerning our schedules. She didn\u2019t overthink the tasks or the consequences of her actions because she was fully aware of them beforehand. The Eisenhower matrix allowed her to make necessary changes in her daily schedule smoothly and with as little stress as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-makes-the-eisenhower-matrix-different-from-other-techniques\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What makes the Eisenhower matrix different from other techniques?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned above, this method has <strong>nothing to do<\/strong> with learning nifty new skills, and everything to do with changing your mindset for the better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Eisenhower matrix will help you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Understand your <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/goal-tracker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">goals<\/a> better,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/identify-wasted-time-and-inefficiency\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">time-wasting activities<\/a>, and most importantly<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Learn how to prioritize your work and everyday tasks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>That way, you can schedule and <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/plan-your-day\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">plan better<\/a> for the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After using it for some time, this time management technique will instill a positive transformation. You\u2019ll notice how much easier it is to schedule your work and how much better you\u2019ve become at handling small crises and inevitable deadlines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1<strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here at Clockify, we tirelessly work on finding new time-management techniques. On the off chance the matrix doesn\u2019t seem like your cup of tea, there is plenty more to choose from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/time-management-techniques\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The 26 most effective time management techniques<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-use-the-eisenhower-matrix-according-to-steven-covey\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to use the Eisenhower matrix according to Steven Covey?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Earlier in this text, we mentioned how Steven Covey introduced the audience to the Eisenhower matrix by writing about it in his book. In the said book, he discussed the idea of the Four Generations of Time Management, and if we look at all four of them, we see that they\u2019re actually instructions on how to employ the matrix properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"generation-1-checklists-and-notes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Generation 1: Checklists and notes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The first generation represents the beginning step of your time and task management planning. We should put all the tasks on paper to be able to achieve them but also have regular reviews later on. Moreover, we must organize everything based on the amount of time and energy such tasks require.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1<strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For that purpose, we advise you to create extensive to-do lists so that you never fail to remember the tasks at hand. As a matter of fact, we\u2019ve selected 6 different to-do list methods so that you can choose the one that suits you best:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/to-do-list-methods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">I tried 6 to-do list methods: Here\u2019s my verdict<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"generation-2-calendars-and-schedule\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Generation 2: Calendars and schedule<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the second generation, all the activities from the previous list should be written in a calendar or otherwise scheduled. This is a way of attempting to plan out the future to the best of our abilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In case you\u2019re not a big fan of scheduling your tasks by putting them in writing, you can opt for an app that\u2019ll store all your upcoming activities. Clockify by <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAKE.com<\/a>, for example, lets you schedule your tasks and activities using a <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/time-blocking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">time blocking technique<\/a> \u2014 a simple yet effective way of prioritizing your workload. Simply group your daily tasks into blocks, and only when you finish a block may you move on to the next one. This way, you won\u2019t forget or fail to complete your tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear in mind that only <em>you<\/em> know how important or urgent your tasks or activities might be. Therefore, you will create blocks based on the importance\/urgency of your tasks at hand by following the principles and tips we mentioned earlier in the text. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1158\" height=\"601\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Time-Blocking-Clockify.png\" alt=\"Time Blocking Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-18146\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Time-Blocking-Clockify.png 1158w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Time-Blocking-Clockify-300x156.png 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Time-Blocking-Clockify-768x399.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Time-Blocking-Clockify-18x9.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1158px) 100vw, 1158px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Calendar view in Clockify<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"generation-3-weekly-plans\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Generation 3: Weekly plans<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The third generation is there to narrow down the timeframe of the activities. You need to plan out your week, the goals and aims you wish to achieve, and begin thinking more seriously about your daily schedule within that week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"generation-4-relationships-and-results\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Generation 4: Relationships and results<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While the first three generations were about managing activities and time \u2014 the fourth one is what really gives the whole process its meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a complete schedule and list of activities, you can begin to analyze which of those tasks are important or unimportant, urgent or non-urgent. This will help you realize which items on your list absolutely need to be done immediately and which ones can be pushed back by a day if more urgent matters pop up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-the-time-management-matrix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the advantages and disadvantages of the time management matrix?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Like with every time management technique, the Eisenhower matrix has both benefits and drawbacks. It\u2019s best to take both into account before deciding whether or not to use it. After all, you need a method that is perfect for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"advantages-of-the-eisenhower-matrix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Advantages of the Eisenhower matrix<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Read on to get a better understanding of the benefits that the Eisenhower method of prioritizing may offer you (if you choose to implement it):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It makes you consider the importance of your tasks,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It helps in reevaluating what is urgent and what isn\u2019t,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It teaches better self-awareness and helps you practice self-analysis, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It helps you become better at making split-second decisions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"disadvantages-of-the-eisenhower-matrix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disadvantages of the Eisenhower matrix<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, this task and time management method may not be suitable for everybody. Therefore, here are some cons of using the Eisenhower method:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It sorts tasks solely based on urgency and importance, and it doesn\u2019t account for resources, complexity, or level of effort a task requires,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It leaves short, urgent tasks behind (even if their checking off the list helps with productivity and gaining momentum),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It may be complex and time-consuming for some, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It may seem overwhelming when too many tasks are present, so limiting them to 5 a piece will work best.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"additional-tips-for-anyone-eager-to-try-out-the-eisenhower-matrix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Additional tips for anyone eager to try out the Eisenhower matrix<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Important to note \u2014 for those who are still unsure, there is a way to find out if the Eisenhower matrix is the right choice for you, and we provide you with some pointers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Try it out for a week,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make a list of your tasks for the week,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sort them inside the four-quadrant grid,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">time tracker<\/a> to track your progress throughout the week, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take notes of how certain situations made you feel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As the trial draws to a close, take a look at the data you\u2019ve accumulated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, ask yourself questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e5f6fe\"><em>Have you become more productive?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e5f6fe\"><em>Was it easier to make decisions?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e5f6fe\"><em>Were the things you considered urgent actually urgent? Or did they just waste your time?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"use-clockify-by-cake-com-to-set-time-estimates-for-your-tasks\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Use Clockify by CAKE.com to set time estimates for your tasks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can\u2019t make more time, but you can use it in a smarter way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To do that, set time estimates for each project and task that you would like to tackle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a time tracker like Clockify, you can define a project-based estimate and a task-based estimate.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1189\" height=\"459\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Hourly-time-estimates-in-Clockify.png\" alt=\"Hourly time estimates in Clockify\n\" class=\"wp-image-25719\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Hourly-time-estimates-in-Clockify.png 1189w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Hourly-time-estimates-in-Clockify-730x282.png 730w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Hourly-time-estimates-in-Clockify-1110x429.png 1110w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Hourly-time-estimates-in-Clockify-768x296.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Hourly-time-estimates-in-Clockify-18x7.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1189px) 100vw, 1189px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hourly time estimates in Clockify<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>To define a project estimate, you just need to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Visit<\/strong> the project\u2019s Settings tab,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pick<\/strong> Time estimate, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Type<\/strong> in your estimate under Manual.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>On a different note, you can set task estimates by selecting Task-based estimate in your project\u2019s Settings. After you click on it, a field appears for each of the project\u2019s tasks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As soon as you\u2019re done with your work, you can check your estimates in the Summary report.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"326\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Project-based-and-task-based-estimates-in-Clockify.png\" alt=\"Project-based and task-based estimates in Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-25720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Project-based-and-task-based-estimates-in-Clockify.png 1024w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Project-based-and-task-based-estimates-in-Clockify-730x232.png 730w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Project-based-and-task-based-estimates-in-Clockify-768x245.png 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Project-based-and-task-based-estimates-in-Clockify-18x6.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Project-based and task-based estimates in Clockify<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>To make it more actionable for your Eisenhower Matrix, you can simply tag your projects depending on where they fall within the quadrant. In other words, are they urgent, not urgent, important, or not important?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To create a tag in Clockify, follow the steps below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Visit the Tags page from the sidebar,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insert the name of the tag,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Click Add.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, you can add a new tag by selecting the tag icon in your tracker (left to the currency sign), typing your preferred tag name, and hitting <em>Create \u2018X\u2019 tag<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"357\" height=\"179\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Creating-a-tag.png\" alt=\"Creating a tag in Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-25721\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Creating-a-tag.png 357w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Creating-a-tag-18x9.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 357px) 100vw, 357px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creating a tag in Clockify<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>If you need to filter your reports further, you can use tags to see which quadrant of your Eisenhower Matrix took up most of your time. If the <em>Not urgent<\/em> part consumed most of your workday, this information will help you refine your priorities.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"646\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Creating-Summary-reports-based-on-tags-646x630.png\" alt=\"Creating Summary reports based on tags\" class=\"wp-image-25722\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Creating-Summary-reports-based-on-tags-646x630.png 646w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Creating-Summary-reports-based-on-tags-308x300.png 308w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Creating-Summary-reports-based-on-tags-12x12.png 12w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Creating-Summary-reports-based-on-tags.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 646px) 100vw, 646px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creating Summary reports based on tags<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><em>Become better at setting priorities.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get started with Clockify<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Improve your time management skills with the Eisenhower Matrix. Learn to differentiate between urgent and important tasks for optimal productivity.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":39,"featured_media":20814,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6275","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-productivity"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6275","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/39"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6275"}],"version-history":[{"count":37,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6275\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":35936,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6275\/revisions\/35936"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20814"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6275"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6275"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6275"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}