Subtask

A task that belongs to a parent task, creating a hierarchical structure.

Definition

A subtask is a Task that is nested under another task (the parent task). Subtasks help break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

Key Characteristics

Inherits Parent's Project

Subtasks automatically belong to their parent task's Project. You don't need to (and shouldn't) set the project separately.

Hierarchical Structure

• Parent Task
  • Subtask 1
    • Sub-subtask 1.1
    • Sub-subtask 1.2
  • Subtask 2

Maximum depth: 2-3 levels recommended

Independent Properties

Each subtask has its own:

• Due Date
• Tags
• Duration
• Status
• Notes

Creating Subtasks

Method 1: Drag and Drop

1. Touch and hold a task
2. Drag it over another task
3. Hold for a moment
4. Release to make it a subtask

Method 2: In Task Editor

1. Open or create a task
2. Tap "Parent Task" field
3. Select the parent task
4. Save

Method 3: Swipe Right

1. Swipe right on a task
2. Tap "Add Subtask"
3. Enter subtask details

When to Use Subtasks

✅ Good Use Cases

Breaking down complex tasks:

• "Plan vacation"
  • Research destinations
  • Book flights
  • Reserve hotel
  • Create itinerary

Multi-step processes:

• "Write report"
  • Gather data
  • Create outline
  • Write draft
  • Review and edit

Checklists:

• "Prepare for meeting"
  • Review agenda
  • Prepare slides
  • Print handouts

❌ When NOT to Use

Independent tasks: If tasks don't relate to a common outcome, use a Project instead.

Too many levels: More than 3 levels becomes hard to manage.

Simple tasks: "Call dentist" doesn't need subtasks.

Subtasks and Status

Parent-Child Status Relationship

When parent is completed:

• All subtasks are automatically completed
• Completion date is set

When all subtasks are completed:

• Parent task is NOT automatically completed
• You must complete the parent manually

When parent is paused:

• Subtasks remain as-is
• You can still work on subtasks

When parent is dropped:

• All subtasks are automatically dropped

Subtasks in Views

Task Lists

Subtasks appear indented under their parent:

□ Parent Task
  □ Subtask 1
  □ Subtask 2

Collapsed/Expanded

Tap the arrow next to parent to show/hide subtasks.

Next Actions

• Parallel parent: All active subtasks can be next actions
• Sequential parent: Only first incomplete subtask

Subtasks vs Sections

Subtask	Section
Belongs to a task	Belongs to a project
Can be completed	Cannot be completed (organizational only)
Has all task properties	Limited properties
Maximum 2-3 levels	Only 1 level

Best Practices

Keep It Simple

• 3-7 subtasks per parent
• Maximum 2-3 levels deep
• Clear, actionable subtask names

Use for Breakdown

Subtasks should be steps toward completing the parent:

• ✅ "Prepare presentation" → "Create slides"
• ❌ "Work tasks" → "Random task"

Set Due Dates Wisely

• Parent due date = final deadline
• Subtask due dates = intermediate milestones
• Ensure subtasks due before parent

Don't Overuse

Not every task needs subtasks. Use them when they add clarity.

Subtasks in Inbox

Special Behavior

When you set a due date for a subtask in the Inbox, it stays in the inbox until its parent is processed. This prevents orphaned subtasks.

Related Terms

• Task
• Section
• Project
• Task Status