Eisenhower Matrix for task prioritization
Understanding the Eisenhower Matrix
The Eisenhower Matrix is split into four quadrants to help you prioritize tasks and know which tasks to complete first. Across the top and sides of each quadrant are the words “urgent,” “not urgent,” “important,” and “not important.” It is critical to understand the difference between urgent and important. Urgent tasks require your immediate attention. These tasks put you in a hurried mindset and generate stress. Important tasks help you achieve long-term goals.
Benefits of the Eisenhower Matrix
Provides a quick and easy method for evaluating tasks. The matrix is adaptable for many priority setting needs like projects, services, personal needs, etc.
Quadrants of the Eisenhower Matrix
| Quadrant 1: Important and urgent | Quadrant 2: Important and not urgent |
| These are the activities that you should do right away. They can be crises, problems, or deadlines. Items not completed from Quadrant 2 move here. The solution to limiting tasks in this quadrant is to manage your time to complete tasks in Quadrant 2 before they move here. | These are tasks that help us achieve long-term goals (ex. studying for an exam in two weeks). These tasks can move to Quadrant 1 if not completed. Personal and self-care tasks fall into this quadrant. These tasks can be broken down over a period of time and done with more care and time. |
| Quadrant 3: Not important and urgent | Quadrant 4: Not important and not urgent |
| These tasks require our attention right now, but do not help us achieve our goals. These tasks look like interruptions from other people or favors and are often time consuming. They are not necessarily bad, but they need to be balanced with activities from Quadrants 1 and 2. The solution to limiting tasks in this quadrant is to become more assertive and politely say no. | These tasks are mostly distractions and could take up most of the day if not moderated. These activities do not have to be eliminated, but should be pushed until other important tasks are completed. After a busy day, watching TV or going on social media can help you relax, just make sure they aren’t taking up most of your day! |
Eisenhower Matrix fillable template
Use the Eisenhower Matrix fillable template to assess your own tasks and help you prioritize what you need to do first.
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