How to create subtasks in MS Project

Creating subtasks in MS Project is essential to organize your project plans, break down larger tasks, and improve project management efficiency. Knowing how to create and manage subtasks will give you a better overview of your project schedule, dependencies, and resource allocation.

This guide will help you set up subtasks in Microsoft Projects , which can make your project plans more efficient.

 

Understanding subtasks in MS Project

A subtask in MS Project software is a task that falls under a larger task, often referred to as a "summary task." Subtasks help break work down into manageable units and show relationships and dependencies. You can describe your project plan in detail and easily track your progress with subtasks.

Steps to create a subtask in MS Project

How to create a subtask in MS Project

1. Open your project plan : First, start Microsoft Office 365 MS Project or MS Project Professional , depending on your setup.
   
   
2. Enter tasks : List your primary tasks in the Task Name field.
   
   
3. Creating a subtask
   
   
4. Select the task you want to make into a subtask.
   
   
5. Click the Indent Task button on the toolbar.
   
   
6. The selected task now becomes a subtask under the previous task, creating a hierarchical structure.
   
   
7. Repeat as needed : Continue adding and indenting tasks until your subtasks are structured the way you want.

 

Using subtasks allows you to group related activities under a main task, making project monitoring and updating easier.

Why use subtasks in MS Project?

1. Improved organization : Subtasks provide a clear breakdown of larger tasks, making project plans more manageable and understandable.
   
   
2. Improved tracking : Subtasks allow you to assign resources and deadlines to smaller units, making it easier to track progress.
   
   
3. Better Reporting : Subtasks help create more detailed reports and assist in project analysis.

Creating subtasks in MS Project Online

1. Open your project plan in MS Project .
   
   
2. Enter the tasks you want to include in your plan.
   
   
3. Use the Indent button to create subtasks under each main task.
   
   

This feature allows you to organize tasks in a structured manner, making project management more efficient.

How to Create Subtasks in MS Project for Mac

1. Open your project plan in MS Project for Mac.
   
   
2. List the tasks in the order you want.
   
   
3. Use the available options in the toolbar to indent and create subtasks.

 

Note that some features may differ from the Windows version, so it is recommended to read the version-specific documentation for detailed instructions.

 

Additional features to consider

MS Project offers many features to support project management, such as task dependencies, milestone tracking, and resource management.

These tools enable users to structure and track projects more effectively, ensuring that every aspect of the project is well organized and aligned with overall goals.

Choose the right MS Project version and license for your needs

Different versions of MS Project are suitable for different business needs, including

1. MS Project Office 365 : This cloud-based version is ideal for online collaboration and team management, making it suitable for companies with remote teams.
   
   
2. MS Project Professional : Provides comprehensive features for project managers working on complex and large projects, including advanced reporting and resource management tools.
   
   
3. MS Project Standard : A simplified version for smaller teams or individuals who need basic project management features.

 

You can purchase the MS Project download together with the MS Project license from lizenzguenstiger.de

 

FAQS

Can I create subtasks in all versions of MS Project?

Yes, you can create subtasks in MS Project versions such as Project 2021 Professional, Project 2019 Professional, Project 2016 Professional, and Project 2013 Professional. Although the core functionality is the same in these versions, there may be slight differences depending on the edition.

 

What is the difference between a summary task and a subtask?

A summary task is a higher-level task that groups together several subtasks. Subtasks are the smaller tasks within the summary task that break down the work into specific actions.

 

Can I assign resources to subtasks?

Yes, you can assign resources to subtasks in MS Project. This helps in tracking specific roles and responsibilities for each unit of work.