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ProductivityTime ManagementDelegation

Eisenhower Matrix

Categorize lengthy todo lists to accelerate progress on completing them.

Eisenhower Matrix diagram

Purpose

This framework sorts work into four categories using dimensions of urgency and importance. It helps you separate what you should do now, schedule for later, delegate to someone else, or remove entirely so your time goes to the highest-leverage work.

Framework Snapshot

Created
2026-04-21
Updated
2026-04-21
Primary Use
Productivity

When To Use

  • When you're overwhelmed with how much you have on your list and not sure where to start
  • When you need to give a direct report some additional tasks

When Not To Use

  • When planning which initiatives should fall into which horizons (see Zone To Win)

Notes

The matrix works because it forces a clearer decision about what deserves your attention.

  • do items that are both urgent and important
  • defer items that are important but not urgent
  • delegate items that are urgent but do not require your unique contribution
  • delete items that are neither urgent nor important

References

Comments

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