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Can You Create Custom Fields in Microsoft To Do? Workarounds & Tips

Emma Brown Oct 16, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know if they can create custom fields for status, priority, or assignment details in Microsoft To Do.

Can You Create Custom Fields in Microsoft To Do?

Product: Microsoft To Do
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Trying to organize tasks with specific attributes like custom status, priority levels, or detailed assignees.
Observed behavior: Microsoft To Do currently lacks native support for user-created custom fields, offering only built-in options like steps, notes, and due dates.

Before you start

Verify that you are using the latest version of Microsoft To Do. While native custom fields are unavailable, familiarizing yourself with existing built-in features like hashtags and notes will help you implement the best workarounds.

Solution 1Recommended

Utilize Built-in Features for Custom Tracking

Since native custom fields are unavailable, you can use hashtags, notes, and sub-steps to organize your tasks effectively.

Microsoft To Do provides several flexible fields that can be adapted to act like custom categories. By standardizing how you use titles and notes, you can replicate the functionality of custom fields.

Use Hashtags for Status and Priority

Add hashtags (e.g., #urgent, #in-progress, #review) directly in the task title. This allows you to visually identify task attributes at a glance.

Maximize the Notes Field

Click on a task to open its details panel. Use the 'Add note' section to write down detailed assignment information, custom criteria, or extended project details.

Break Tasks into Steps

Use the 'Add step' feature within a task to track sub-status and granular progress for complex activities instead of needing a dedicated status column.

Utilize Built-in Features for Custom Tracking

Pro Tip: Clicking on any hashtag in Microsoft To Do will automatically filter and display all tasks across your lists that share the same tag.

Solution 2

Upgrade to Microsoft Planner or Microsoft Lists

If your workflow strictly requires custom columns, assigned users, and advanced structured tracking, consider moving to a more robust project management tool.

Solution 3

Request the Feature via the Feedback Portal

Let the Microsoft product team know that custom fields are essential for your task management workflow.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assign tasks to other people in Microsoft To Do?

Yes, you can assign tasks to others by sharing a specific list. Once the list is shared, click on a task within that list and use the 'Assign to' feature to select a member of the shared list.

Will Microsoft add custom fields to To Do in the future?

While Microsoft frequently updates To Do, there is no official timeline for the addition of custom fields. Users are highly encouraged to submit and upvote this request on the Microsoft Feedback Portal.

Are Microsoft To Do tasks linked to Outlook?

Yes, Microsoft To Do automatically syncs with Outlook Tasks. Any task you create in To Do will appear in your Outlook Tasks pane, and flagged emails in Outlook can automatically populate as tasks in To Do.

How do I track task progress without a custom status field?

You can use the 'Steps' feature inside a task to create a mini-checklist representing progress stages, or simply type custom hashtags like #in-progress and #completed directly in the task title for easy filtering.

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