Checklists

Helps with working memory difficulties and task completion

Can be helpful for: Individuals who struggle to establish and maintain new habits, individuals who have difficulty creating routines, and individuals who easily forget recurring tasks.

How to Use Checklists as an Organisation Strategy

Many of our daily tasks are recurring. Checklists are effective tools for people with ADHD or those who face challenges with task management. By creating a checklist once, you can use it repeatedly to remember tasks and streamline your routine. For instance:

  • Create a checklist for leaving the house to ensure you don’t forget essentials. Place it near the front door as a visual cue before you leave.
  • Develop a grocery checklist with your frequently purchased items to simplify shopping.
  • Use checklists for morning and nighttime routines to support habit-building and better organisation.

Working Memory Strategy: Automating Task Reminders

Checklists function as a working memory strategy by externalising what needs to be remembered. They act as a consistent reminder system, reducing the mental load required to recall steps for recurring tasks.

What’s the Science Behind This?

While there’s limited direct scientific research on checklists, they are widely regarded as effective organisation strategies. They help create systems to address memory and attention challenges, making task completion easier through repetition and automation.

References

Gendron, A. (2023). The Mini ADHD Coach. Penguin Random House UK. 

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