Eisenhower Matrix Template

About the Eisenhower Matrix Template

We’ve all been there: you sit down to start your day, and you’re so overwhelmed by the tasks you need to complete that you don’t know where to start. Emails pile up, you have errands to run... How do you sort through the chaos? Meet, the Eisenhower matrix, a decision-making framework designed by former American president Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The Eisenhower decision matrix template helps you prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. Instead of struggling to figure out in what order you should complete your tasks, decide which ones are urgent, which can be delegated, and which are optional.

How to use the Eisenhower matrix template

Making your own Eisenhower matrix is easy with Miro's template. You can easily visualize tasks in each quadrant of the matrix, adding images, videos, or documents to keep track of everything in one place. For a dynamic overview, you can even integrate Jira cards as action items to keep track of the current status of any task.

Here's a step-by-step guide to using the Eisenhower matrix template effectively:

Step 1: Fill in the "Do First" quadrant

The tasks in the upper left quadrant are the most important. They need to be done today. For example, answer an urgent email from your boss, or make a doctor’s appointment.

Step 2: Fill in the "Schedule" quadrant

Tasks in the upper right quadrant are important, but not pressing. These are things you can schedule for the future and that you need to put in your calendar. Catching up with a friend or meeting with your coworker about a non-urgent topic can fall into this category. The bulk of your tasks should fall into this quadrant.

Step 3: Fill in the "Delegate" quadrant

The lower left quadrant is for tasks that are not as important as the urgent tasks, but should still get done promptly. Make sure to follow up on delegated tasks, to ensure they were executed properly. If someone calls you into a meeting, for example, you could delegate the task by asking a teammate to take the meeting instead.

Step 4: Complete the "Don’t Do" quadrant

The lower right quadrant is for tasks you don’t need to do at all. Think about the tasks that allow you to procrastinate and keep you from getting things done. Things like scrolling through social media might fall into this category.

Step 5: Reassess your matrix and keep it up-to-date

Iterate on your matrix as needed. Your priorities might change during the day or as other tasks come up, so use the template to quickly add, move, or change tasks as your schedule evolves.

Why should you use the Eisenhower Matrix template?

An Eisenhower decision matrix template can be particularly useful for various reasons:

1. Prioritization: It helps sharpen your focus on the most important tasks, thereby increasing productivity by keeping the vital tasks in the foreground.

2. Delegation: The template clearly identifies the tasks that can be delegated, promoting efficient teamwork and time management.

3. Stress Reduction: By categorizing tasks, the matrix reduces the overwhelm of long to-do lists, which eases anxiety and provides a clear path for action.

4. Time Management: It allows you to identify tasks that should not consume valuable time, making it easier to use your work hours more efficiently.

5. Strategic Planning: The matrix supports long-term planning by distinguishing between tasks that require immediate attention and those that contribute to long-term goals.