What the MoSCoW Method is and how it helps you get things done

When there are a lot of things on the agenda and it is difficult to set priorities, strategic approaches save. For example, the MoSCoW method, which will help not only to competently divide tasks, but also to cope with them faster.

What is the peculiarity of the MoSCoW method

Its creator, Oracle consultant Dai Clegg, proposes to divide cases into four groups. The method name is an acronym based on the first letters of the category names, to which the author has added an "o" to make the word easy to pronounce:

• Must (should) - urgent and important matters. For example, preparation for a working presentation, which you have to give tomorrow in front of foreign partners.
• Should (standing) - important but not urgent matters. This category includes serious tasks that can wait. Let's say drawing up a work plan for the next month. If you do not have time to do it today, you may well reschedule it until tomorrow.
• Could
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  (could) - things that would be nice to do. Let's say you want to hover order at work. If you have the time and energy left for this, do it today. Otherwise, put it off for later.
• Won’t (I will not) - everything that can be calmly not done. Only this does not mean that such matters should never be started. They just wait a few days while you are busy with more important tasks. For example, sorting document folders or any other activity that does not require urgency and haste can fall into this category.

Initially, this approach was created for efficient project management (Oracle is the largest software manufacturer). However, the MoSCoW method is easy to apply for personal use as well.

How to use the MoSCoW method

Dividing tasks into categories is only the first step to success. There are a few more simple rules that will help you get the best effect.

1. Add a task to only one of the four categories

If you are not sure where to assign a task, always add it to a category below it, for example, Should instead of Must. As you work, you can change the priority of tasks, so don't worry about absolute accuracy.

2. Add things to your calendar

Start with the tasks in the Must category, then sort out everything in the Should category, but don't overload your schedule. Stop as soon as you realize that your schedule is getting too busy.

Some tasks can take longer than you think, so it is important to leave some free space in case of work force majeure.

3. Review all four categories constantly

The priorities are changing. Review your calendar every week and check that the categorization of to-dos is up to date.

You can also combine the MoSCoW method with a similar one - the Eisenhower matrix. This approach involves dividing tasks into urgent and important, non-urgent and important, urgent and unimportant, and non-urgent and unimportant. The matrix is ​​best used when working with tasks from one MoSCoW category.