What is hyper-scheduling?

Hyperscheduling?; TLDR

Hyperscheduling is the idea of fully planning your day using a calendar. Every minute of the day is assigned to some task using a calendar.

Hyperscheduling in more detail

Hyperscheduling is only part of a productivity system. It helps me plan my day:

1. Select a set of tasks for today (this is done outside of hyperscheduling, using GTD or another system).
2. Prioritize your tasks in order of importance.
3. Lay your tasks out on the calendar.

Step #3 is where the magic is. By visually moving time blocks around on a calendar, I get the following benefits:

• evaluate whether my estimate for the task is correct. Am I really going to finish this task in 1hr?
• evaluate the order of tasks. Am I really going to be able to switch from Task A to task B with no break?
• surface appointments. I have a standing “lunch” calendar entry that reminds me that lunch time is not available work tasks.

At the end of this daily process I end up with a list of tasks that I believe I can complete by the end of the day because:

• I reviewed my effort estimates
• I found a time slot for all of the tasks
• I built in time for breaks and other obligations.

Everyone is wired differently but it’s been hugely successul for me, because I’m able to use realistic criteria for planning my day. Using a visual tool for this removes friction and facilitates the process.

More

I first learned about hyperscheduling from MacSparky. He has a great FAQ.