Eisenhower

The Eisenhower Matrix is a framework for prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance, helping focus on what truly matters.

Components

Urgent & Important: Do immediately
Important, Not Urgent: Schedule
Urgent, Not Important: Delegate
Neither Urgent Nor Important: Eliminate

A two-by-two matrix puts do and schedule in the important row, delegate or avoid and remove in the less important row. A live outage is urgent and important; preventive testing is important but not urgent. — Conceptual decision matrix with illustrative work examples. Classify importance by contribution to a goal and urgency by the need for immediate attention. Original diagram based on Columbia University, Office of Student Support, The Eisenhower Matrix.

Usage

Used for time management and task prioritization. Helps distinguish between what's truly important versus merely urgent.

Examples and Applications

Daily Planning: Sort tasks into quadrants each morning
Project Management: Prioritize features and deadlines
Personal Productivity: Focus on high-impact activities
See also: GTD, Atomic Habits, Frameworks