Getting Started with Your Personal Productivity App
- Authors
- Name
- Adam R Farley
- @adamrfarley
- Published on
- Published:
Welcome to your new productivity companion! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started and make the most of your app from day one.
First Steps
1. Create Your Account
When you first open the app, you'll be prompted to create an account or sign in. Your account ensures your data is synced across all your devices and provides backup for your important tasks and projects.
2. Complete the Initial Setup
After creating your account, you'll go through a quick setup process:
- Choose your productivity methodology: GTD, PARA, or a custom approach
- Set your working hours: This helps with scheduling and deadline calculations
- Configure notifications: Decide when and how you want to be reminded about tasks
3. Understanding the Interface
Main Dashboard
Your dashboard provides an overview of:
- Today's priorities
- Upcoming deadlines
- Weekly progress metrics
- Quick capture area for new tasks
Navigation Menu
- Inbox: Capture and process new items
- Projects: Organize related tasks
- Contexts: Group tasks by location or tool needed
- Calendar: View time-blocked tasks and appointments
- Reviews: Weekly and monthly planning sessions
Your First Tasks
Capture Everything
Start by doing a "brain dump" of everything on your mind:
- Open the Inbox
- Add each task, idea, or project that comes to mind
- Don't worry about organizing yet - just capture
Organize Your Inputs
Once you've captured everything:
- Process each item in your Inbox
- Decide if it's actionable
- If yes, assign it to a project and add a context
- If no, either delete it or move it to a "Someday/Maybe" list
Set Up Your First Project
Projects are collections of related tasks that work toward a specific outcome:
- Click "New Project"
- Give it a clear, outcome-focused name (e.g., "Organize home office")
- Add the tasks needed to complete it
- Set a target completion date
Essential Features to Know
Smart Scheduling
The app automatically suggests optimal times for your tasks based on:
- Your energy levels throughout the day
- Available time slots
- Task context and duration
Context-Based Organization
Contexts help you batch similar tasks:
- @Computer: Tasks requiring your laptop
- @Phone: Calls to make
- @Errands: Tasks to do while out
- @Home: Tasks for your residence
Weekly Reviews
Schedule a weekly review to:
- Process your Inbox
- Review project progress
- Plan the upcoming week
- Celebrate completed goals
Quick Tips for Success
- Start small: Begin with just a few projects and contexts
- Be consistent: Spend 5 minutes each morning planning your day
- Trust the system: Once you've captured something, let the app handle the reminders
- Regular reviews: Weekly reviews are crucial for staying on track
Next Steps
Now that you're set up, explore these features:
- Connect your calendar and email accounts
- Customize your task linting preferences
- Set up automation rules
- Explore the mobile app for on-the-go capture
Ready to dive deeper? Check out our other guides on connecting accounts, creating custom views, and advanced productivity techniques.
Need help? Visit our help center or reach out to our support team.
Ready to Own Your Life?
Join thousands of users who've transformed their productivity
Start Your 14-Day Free TrialNo credit card required • Cancel anytime • Setup in under 5 minutes