GTD Weekly Review

Overview

The GTD Weekly Review is a dedicated time block (typically 1-2 hours) to step back, process everything, and ensure your system accurately reflects current reality. David Allen considers it the "master key" to making GTD work.

The Weekly Review Process

1. Get Clear

• Collect loose papers and materials: Gather all scattered items
• Process your notes: Review meeting notes, jottings
• Empty your head: Brain dump anything on your mind

2. Get Current

• Review Next Action lists: Update, complete, remove
• Review Project list: Ensure each has a next action
• Review Calendar: Past 2 weeks and upcoming 2-3 weeks
• Review Waiting For list: Follow up as needed
• Review Someday/Maybe: Consider promoting items

3. Get Creative

• Review goals and objectives: Big picture thinking
• Generate new ideas: Creative thinking about projects
• Identify new projects: Capture emerging work

Why It's Essential

Trust in the System

• Weekly review keeps system current
• Outdated lists aren't trusted
• Trust is prerequisite for relaxed productivity
• Must know system reflects reality

Perspective

• Step back from daily execution
• See whole landscape
• Make strategic adjustments
• Prevent important from being overlooked

Mental Clarity

• Mind knows system is current
• Can truly relax
• Reduces anxiety about forgotten items
• Provides fresh start each week

Best Practices

• Same time/place each week: Build habit
• Friday afternoon ideal: Clear desk for weekend
• Minimum 60 minutes: Don't rush
• Distraction-free: Close email, silence phone
• Complete the review: Don't skip steps

Benefits

• Updated accurate system
• Clear picture of commitments
• Ready for upcoming week
• Relaxed confident mind
• Better decision-making

Common Mistakes

• Skipping weeks (breaks trust)
• Rushing through process
• Not processing to completion
• Doing work instead of reviewing

Ideal For

Anyone using GTD or similar system for managing work and life commitments