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How to Update Monthly Task Completion Automatically in Microsoft Project

Adam Davis Oct 1, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to automatically update the completion percentage for recurring monthly tasks in Microsoft Project.

How to Update Monthly Task Completion Automatically in Microsoft Project

Product: Microsoft Project
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Tracking the progress and completion status of recurring monthly tasks in a project schedule.
Observed behavior: Microsoft Project does not automatically calculate or update the percentage complete for recurring monthly tasks based solely on the Auto Scheduled setting.

Before you start

Before updating task progress, ensure you have set a project baseline (Project tab > Set Baseline). This allows you to accurately compare your actual completion dates against the original schedule.

Solution 1Recommended

Update Task Completion Using a Status Date and Mark on Track

Use this method if your monthly task started and finished exactly as scheduled before a specific reporting date.

Because Microsoft Project relies on actual tracking rather than just auto-scheduling to determine progress, you must set a Status Date to define the specific point in time you are reporting on.

Set a Status Date

Navigate to the 'Project' tab on the ribbon, click on 'Project Information', and select a recent past date in the 'Status date' field. Click OK to confirm.

Select the Monthly Task

In your Gantt Chart view, click on the specific recurring monthly task that has been completed as planned.

Mark the Task on Track

Go to the 'Task' tab on the ribbon and click the 'Mark on Track' button. Microsoft Project will automatically update the task's progress to 100% complete based on the status date you set.

Update Task Completion Using a Status Date and Mark on Track

Progress Updated: Your task will now accurately reflect its completion status up to the chosen status date without affecting future recurring tasks.

Solution 2

Manually Enter Actual Start and Finish Dates

Use the Tracking table to input precise dates when a task's actual start or finish dates differ from the original auto-scheduled plan.

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Manage Project Timelines Easily with WPS Office

While Microsoft Project is a powerful tool for complex scheduling, many users find it easier and more cost-effective to track monthly tasks using highly customizable spreadsheet templates. WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and fully compatible alternative to Microsoft Office, featuring built-in Gantt chart and task tracking templates to simplify your workflow.

1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for free and install it on your PC or mobile device.
2. Find a Project Template: Open WPS Spreadsheet, go to the Homepage, and search for 'Project Tracking' or 'Gantt Chart' in the Templates library.
3. Track Tasks Easily: Download your preferred template and easily update task percentages and dates using standard spreadsheet functions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't the 'Auto Scheduled' setting update my task progress to 100%?

The 'Auto Scheduled' feature in Microsoft Project only recalculates task dates based on dependencies and constraints. It does not automatically assume the task is actually being completed in real life; progress must be recorded manually or by marking the task on track against a status date.

What is a Status Date and why do I need it?

A Status Date acts as an artificial 'today' date used for reporting on a project's actual progress. When you mark tasks on track, Microsoft Project updates the actual progress as if it were the status date you set, which is crucial for accurate historical tracking.

How do I track a monthly task that is only partially complete?

You can track partial completion by selecting the task, navigating to the Task ribbon, and clicking the 25%, 50%, or 75% complete buttons. Alternatively, you can double-click the task and enter a precise percentage in the 'Update Tasks' dialog box.

Can I use Excel or WPS Spreadsheet instead of Microsoft Project for task tracking?

Yes. For many small to medium projects, a spreadsheet with a customized Gantt chart template (available built-in with WPS Spreadsheet) is more than sufficient for tracking task completion, start dates, and deadlines without the complexity and cost of Microsoft Project.

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