To-do lists

The humble to-do list should never be overlooked. Having a simple list of jobs to do can help you make the most of your working hours, and avoid those unpleasant moments of forgetfulness.

Instead of noting it down on some A4, these tools will help you stay organised and feel less overwhelmed by your calendar. You can set reminders, collaborate with others, and enjoy those satisfying ticks.

A super straightforward to-do list. Trello is a favourite for freelancers, agencies, and other small businesses, because even the free version gives them exactly what they need.

Who’s it for?

Anyone who wants to keep their tasks and projects organised simply.

Good bits

• It couldn’t be simpler to use. Add tasks to different lists, drag and drop them, set deadlines, and archive jobs when they’re done.
• The app displays the same info as the desktop version, so you can check your to-do lists anywhere.
• The free version is excellent value.

Not so good bits

• Trello is less sophisticated than some other to-do lists. It’s the bare essentials.

Free-o-meter

5/5

Prices: Business version costs $12.50 per month.

The free version includes unlimited lists and boards, and you can create a maximum of 10 boards to share with other teams.

Proudly called “the simplest to-do list” by its creators, this Google Chrome extension is exactly that. Add tasks, keep them in your eyeline while using your browser, and tick them off when you’re ready. Simple!

Who’s it for?

Freelancers and small business owners that want an easy, no-frills way to tick things off.

Good bits

• Forget scraps of paper. This is a to-do list you’ll never lose.
• Add items and tick them off straight from your Chrome browser.
• Easily mix your personal and business tasks.

Not so good bits

• There are no reminders, deadlines, or automated features, this is a pure and simple to-do list.

Free-o-meter

5/5

Prices: It’s free!

A clear and simple digital to-do list. Todoist helps you add personal and business tasks easily, reminds you when they’re due (even if it’s every week), and highlights the most important jobs.

Who’s it for?

Freelancers and small business owners with a lot on their plate.

Good bits

• Simple and uncomplicated. Adding a task takes seconds, and automation means you’ll keep getting reminders when you need them.
• See how well you’re doing with visual analytics.
• Connect with Google Calendar, Dropbox, and Amazon Alexa.

Not so good bits

• You have to pay to upgrade your account to access reminders.

Free-o-meter

4/5

Prices: Premium costs £3 per month (billed for the whole year).

The free version will suit up to 5 users adding up to 80 projects. Premium is still pretty cheap and includes insights, project labels, reminders, and more.