Which App Should You Use for Your To-Do List?

Whether you have an iPhone, Android or Windows phone, or you simply use the Web on your desktop, the number of to-do list apps is too many to count. You’re busy, and you need a quick way to stay organized and productive — but how do you pick the best app for your needs?

The best app for you is the one that keeps track of your tasks based on your preferred method. You can find to-do list apps that list your tasks in a grocery-style list or in a more detailed and defined manner that feature collaboration elements.

The following is a sampling of to-do list apps in a few different styles, and they are available for Android and iOS. Some apps also work with the Windows phone, the Web and Apple SmartWatch, and some can sync with multiple devices.

1. Simple Grocery-Style List Apps

If you like a clear design that focuses on the list of tasks you need to complete, a grocery-style list is for you. Install one of the following apps, load your tasks and begin ticking off each one:

Any.do

Organize your tasks into categories or a due date with this app available for Android, iOS, Mac and Web. You can split your tasks into personal, work, family or shopping and assign a due date, so you only need a quick swipe to view the week ahead in all categories. If you’re too busy to type in a task, you can use the voice-entry feature.

The basic app is free, or you can upgrade to the premium version for $2.99 each month to add recurring tasks and reminders.

Asana

Asana makes personal tasks as well as team tasks easier to view and check off. With one glance, you can see what items you need to cover today under “My Tasks” and assign new projects to team members.

The app is free for up to 15 team members, or you can upgrade for $9.99 per month for unlimited members and private projects. The app is available on Android, iOS and Web.

2. Detailed Project-Style List Apps

Sometimes you need more than a grocery-style list. The following apps delve deeper into the numerous projects you are juggling. From work to family to home, a project-style list app covers it all.

Todoist

Todoist allows you to create projects in various categories and assign due dates. For example, you can record your child’s sports as a project and break down the list of items you need to purchase or places you need to go.

Today’s tasks list the items and color codes them according to your assigned projects. It’s one app that easily separates your work life from your personal responsibilities.

The app is available for a wide range of platforms including Android, iOS, Windows, Web and Mac. The basic version is free, or you can upgrade for $28.99 per year to access project templates and more.

Todo Cloud

The Todo app is now available with cloud service, so you can keep track of your life no matter where you are through Android, iOS, Web and Mac. You can create tasks with subtasks and details, a focus list, due dates or view all of your tasks at once. The basic version is free, but you can try the Cloud plan for smart lists and notifications for $1.99 per month.

3. A Different Type of App: Habitica

Sometimes you need a little motivational fun to be productive. Habit RPG offers an app in a role-playing game style called Habitica. After installing, create an avatar and begin checking off your tasks, habits and dailies (recurring tasks) to earn gold, armor and other adventure items.

If you miss a task or a day, your character takes a hit, so you have to stay accountable. There is also a social network of guilds you can join and work on challenges together. It’s an app the whole family can enjoy. The app is available for free on Android and iOS.

It may take you trying a few apps to find the one that increases your daily productivity. Just remember — an app can keep track of your tasks, but you need to put in the action to accomplish your goals.