Why Choose Lists?

For a long time, I relied on a spreadsheet to log my writing concepts, which served its purpose adequately. However, spreadsheets are primarily designed for numerical data, making it challenging to brainstorm ideas effectively.

Recently, I stumbled upon Microsoft 365 Lists, which acts as a project management tool specifically tailored for organizing textual information. I find that visualizing ideas as potential projects using Lists allows for enhanced creativity and focus.

For instance, I created an idea-tracking list that includes fields for potential topics (tags), suitable publications, and other pertinent resources linked to the idea. By considering specific themes before drafting an article, I have noticed a significant improvement in my writing clarity.

Lists presents information in a grid format similar to spreadsheets, but it allows each row (or idea) to be displayed as a unique card. You can customize columns based on your requirements—whether text, dates, options, images, or links. Sorting and filtering data is also user-friendly.

The app functions seamlessly on both my mobile device and computer, with real-time syncing. While I primarily use Lists for personal purposes, it’s designed for collaboration, allowing you to share lists with others for joint idea development.

My Approach to Using Lists

Whenever inspiration strikes while I’m out, I open the Lists app on my phone, select the appropriate list, tap "Add New Item," and jot down the idea. Once I return to my computer, I can easily access the list and expand on the new concept by adding tags, relevant publications, and additional notes.

If you think Microsoft Lists might benefit you, here are two ways to get started: creating a new list from scratch or using an existing spreadsheet to populate it.

Creating a List from Scratch

1. Open Microsoft 365 and select Lists. If it’s not visible, click “See more” to find it.

2. Click “+Blank List” or “+New List” at the top. Fill in the title, description (if desired), choose a color and icon, then hit “Create.” A blank list will appear in Grid view.

3. Start by clicking “+Add new item” or “+Add column.” I typically add the columns I need, selecting the type as I go.
4. You can configure the columns based on the data you want to store, including text, dates, choices, and more. My List features columns for Titles, Topics, Possible Publications, Entry Dates, Other Articles, Status, and Notes.

5. After setting up the form, begin entering your information.
6. To view each idea as a card, create a Gallery view by clicking the “+” at the top right, select “Gallery,” name it, and click “Create.” You now have a functional ideas list!
7. Download the Lists app on your mobile device, select your new List, and you're ready to go!

Creating a List from an Existing Spreadsheet

If you have a spreadsheet with your ideas already documented, you can easily create a List from it by saving your spreadsheet as a Comma Separated Values (CSV) file. Here’s how:

1. Decide which columns you’ll need for your List and adjust the column headers in your spreadsheet accordingly.

2. Save the spreadsheet as a CSV file.
3. Open Microsoft 365 and select Lists. If it’s not visible, click “See more” to find it.
4. Navigate to the Lists landing page, choose “From CSV,” then find and open the CSV file you created. Lists will generate a new List from your file.

5. On the Customize screen, select the column types for your List using the dropdown menus.
6. After configuring the columns, proceed to the List Naming panel where you can retain the original spreadsheet name or enter a new one. Choose a color and icon, then click “Create.” Your spreadsheet will now be displayed in List format.
7. Lastly, add a Gallery view by clicking the “+” at the top right, enabling you to visualize each idea as an individual card.

I hope you find this information helpful. I’m not a Microsoft Lists expert, so if you have any tips or improved methods for using the app, I’d love to hear them.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and best of luck with your writing endeavors!

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