ABCDE Prioritization Method
Brian Tracy's task prioritization technique where tasks are labeled A (must do with serious consequences), B (should do with mild consequences), C (nice to do with no consequences), D (delegate), or E (eliminate).
Last updated: 2026-03-21 05:48
The ABCDE Method
Developed by Brian Tracy, this method helps you review your work list and assign a letter to each task based on its true priority and consequences.
The Five Categories
A Tasks: Must do - serious consequences
B Tasks: Should do - mild consequences
C Tasks: Nice to do - no consequences
D Tasks: Delegate to someone else
E Tasks: Eliminate altogether
Golden Rule
Never do a B task when an A task is left undone. The key is discipline to start on A-1 and stay with it until complete.
Application
- List all tasks
- Assign letters A, B, C, D, or E
- Number A tasks as A-1, A-2, etc.
- Start with A-1 and complete before moving on
- Work systematically through priorities
Benefits
Provides clarity on what truly matters, reduces time wasted on low-priority tasks, and ensures high-impact work gets completed first.
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