Context-Based GTD
Getting Things Done practice of organizing tasks by context (location, tool, or situation) rather than project. Enables efficient task completion based on current circumstances.
Last updated: 2026-03-17 15:16
Overview
Context-Based GTD is a core practice from David Allen's Getting Things Done methodology. It involves organizing your next actions by the context in which they can be completed, allowing you to see all available actions for your current situation.
What Are Contexts?
Contexts are the circumstances required to complete a task:
- Physical location
- Tools available
- People present
- Energy level
- Time available
Common Context Lists
Location Contexts
- @Home
- @Office
- @Errands
- @Downtown
- @Computer
Tool Contexts
- @Phone
- @Online
- @Computer
- @Agenda (for meetings)
People Contexts
- @Boss
- @Spouse
- @Team
- @Client
Energy Contexts
- @High Energy
- @Low Energy
- @Creative
- @Administrative
Time Contexts
- @Quick (< 10 minutes)
- @30 Minutes
- @Long Block
How to Use Contexts
1. Assign Contexts
- Review each next action
- Ask: "What do I need to do this?"
- Tag with appropriate context(s)
- Some tasks may have multiple contexts
2. Filter by Current Context
- Assess current situation
- "I'm at computer with 30 minutes"
- View @Computer context list
- Choose action to complete
3. Batch Process
- Complete all @Phone calls together
- Handle all @Errands in one trip
- Process all @Email at once
- Maximize efficiency through batching
Benefits
Efficiency
- Batch similar tasks
- Reduce context switching
- Maximize current situation
- Save setup time
Clarity
- See only relevant actions
- No mental filtering needed
- Clear next steps
- Reduced overwhelm
Flexibility
- Adapt to circumstances
- Make use of unexpected time
- Work anywhere productively
- Always know what's possible
Modern Context Examples
Traditional Office:
- @Desk
- @Phone
- @Meeting Room
- @Printer
Remote Work:
- @Focused Work
- @Zoom
- @Slack
- @Quick Wins
Mobile Contexts:
- @Waiting
- @Transit
- @Mobile
- @Anywhere
Digital Contexts:
- @Browser
- @Code Editor
- @Design Tools
- @Writing
Evolution of Contexts
As technology changes, contexts evolve:
- Less location-dependent with smartphones
- Tool contexts more relevant
- Energy and time contexts growing
- Hybrid work requires new contexts
Tips for Effective Contexts
Keep List Manageable
- 5-10 contexts typical
- Too many = overwhelming
- Too few = not useful
- Adjust to your needs
Make Them Distinct
- Clear boundaries
- Obvious when to use
- No overlap confusion
- Practical differences
Review Regularly
- Weekly review of contexts
- Adjust as life changes
- Remove unused contexts
- Add new ones as needed
Be Flexible
- Contexts are tools, not rules
- Adapt to your workflow
- What works for you
- Iterate and improve
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