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How to Copy and Paste Multiple Tasks in Microsoft Project

John Wilson Oct 8, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to efficiently duplicate or move groups of tasks within Microsoft Project.

How to Copy and Paste Multiple Tasks in Microsoft Project

Product: Microsoft Project
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Managing project schedules and needing to duplicate multiple task groups to save time during project planning.
Observed behavior: The user wants to know the specific commands, context menus, or keyboard shortcuts required to copy and paste multiple task cells simultaneously in different versions of the software.

Before you start

Ensure you have the appropriate edit permissions for the project file in either Project for the web or Project Online before attempting to modify task lists.

Solution 1Recommended

Copy and Paste Tasks in Project for the Web

Use the right-click context menu to easily duplicate multiple tasks in the web version of Microsoft Project.

Project for the web provides a simplified, browser-based interface. You can manage tasks directly from the grid view using standard mouse controls.

Select the Tasks

Click and drag your cursor over the specific task cells you want to duplicate.

Copy the Selection

Right-click anywhere inside the highlighted selection and choose 'Copy' from the context menu.

Paste the Tasks

Right-click on the destination cell where you want the new tasks to begin, and select 'Paste'.

Copy and Paste Tasks in Project for the Web

Quick Tip: You can also use standard keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V in Project for the web for faster editing.

Solution 2

Copy and Paste Tasks in Project Online

Utilize standard keyboard shortcuts to quickly copy and paste task groups in Project Online.

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While Microsoft Project is a dedicated project management tool, you can easily track tasks, manage timelines, and collaborate with your team using WPS Spreadsheet—a powerful, free, and lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office. It offers a familiar interface, built-in templates, and seamless compatibility with standard formats.

1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for free from the official website and install it on your device.
2. Open a Project Template: Launch WPS Spreadsheet, go to the template library, and search for 'Project Management' or 'Task Tracker'.
3. Customize and Track: Input your tasks, use standard copy-paste shortcuts to manage rows, and track your project efficiently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I copy a summary task with all its subtasks in Microsoft Project?

Yes, when you select a summary task and copy it, all of its associated subtasks and nested structures are automatically copied along with it.

Why is the paste option grayed out in Project Online?

This usually happens if you do not have the required edit permissions for the project, or if the project file is currently checked out and locked by another user.

Do task dependencies carry over when I copy and paste?

By default, copying and pasting a group of tasks will retain their internal dependencies (links between the copied tasks), but links to external tasks outside the copied group may not be preserved.

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