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How to Color-Code Microsoft To Do Tasks by Importance

Huda Qurayshi Oct 1, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to learn how to distinguish and prioritize tasks in Microsoft To Do using colored category labels.

How to Color-Code Microsoft To Do Tasks by Importance

Product: Microsoft To Do
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Organizing and prioritizing a daily task list using visual color cues.
Observed behavior: The user is looking for the specific settings or steps to apply color-coded categories to existing or new tasks to visually distinguish their priority levels.

Before you start

Ensure you are logged into your Microsoft account and have the latest version of Microsoft To Do installed on your device or are accessing the updated web version.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Category Labels in Task Details

Assign colored categories directly within the Microsoft To Do task details pane to visually prioritize your items.

Microsoft To Do supports customizable category labels with different colors. These colors appear directly beneath the task in your main list, allowing you to quickly scan for high-priority items.

Open a task

Launch Microsoft To Do and click on the specific task you want to categorize from your task list.

Access Categories

In the task details pane that slides out on the right side of the screen, click on the 'Pick a category' or 'Categories' option.

Assign a color category

Choose an existing colored category from the menu, such as 'Important', 'Later', or 'Waiting'. The corresponding color will now appear as a small tag below the task name.

Custom Categories: If you do not see a category that fits your needs, you can create a new one directly from this menu to match your personal workflow.

Solution 2

Manage Categories via Microsoft Outlook

Use Microsoft Outlook's category management tools, which automatically sync with your Microsoft To Do account.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply multiple color categories to a single task in Microsoft To Do?

Yes, you can assign multiple categories to a single task. Simply open the task details, click on Categories, and select all the color tags that apply. All selected colors will be displayed below the task.

How do I rename an existing color category?

While you can assign categories in Microsoft To Do, renaming them is currently best managed through Microsoft Outlook. In Outlook, navigate to your Task list, click 'Categorize' > 'All Categories', select the color you want to change, and click 'Rename'.

What should I do if the color coding options do not meet my advanced workflow needs?

If you require more advanced color-coding or tagging features, you can submit feature requests directly to Microsoft. Provide your suggestions through the Microsoft Feedback portal, and include screenshots or use-case descriptions whenever possible.

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