Sometimes a writer needs all the help they can get to stay focused, organized and on task. While not strictly a writer’s app, Astrid Tasks can do just that for a writer: allowing writers to organize writing tasks, prioritize writing tasks, set deadlines and share task lists.
The app, available on Android phones and tablets, iPhone, iPad, and on the web, is easy to use. I have experienced some minor glitches on my Android phone, including the app spontaneously shutting off or tasks not disappearing right away after I cross them off; however, these have only been minor annoyances, no where near being a deal breakers.
Astrid Tasks’ menus are clear and easily navigated. The default menu sections are: My Tasks (the main list), Today, Recently Modified, I’ve Assigned, Not in any List, Home, Personal, Shopping and Work. However, users have the ability to create their own lists, such as a writing list. Once you have your custom list, it is easy to add writing tasks, such as complete outline, finish query letter, etc., simply by hitting the plus symbol. Then as you add tasks you can assign priorities, deadlines and a description of the task.
Users also have the ability to share lists, which can come in handy if you are co-writing a writing project with someone else, so you both can see what needs done. There is also the ability to assign certain tasks to different users in a shared list. Users can also leave comments to let their co-author — this feature can also be used to leave yourself comments/notes.
Other handy features include the timer feature, which allows users to record how much time they have spent on a task, and reminders, which will send a message alerting to impending to deadlines. The reminder feature is customizable to go off when a task is due, when a task is overdue or to randomly remind a user of their task during a period of time they set.
All in all Astrid Tasks is a handy app for organization. It also encourages writers to sit down and prioritize what needs to be done and when. Astrid Task is definitely, plus the regular version is free, so you aren’t out anything but time. There is also an premium version of Astrid Task, which is not free, so be careful what you click!
Blood & Ink 
Sounds great! Sad that it isn’t available for Windows phones though. 😦
You can always use the online version of Astrid Tasks; I haven’t given it a try yet, largely b/c the app is just so handy for me. I use it for my grocery lists since it saves on paper.
I can’t find this app. I have an iPhone 4. Is it available for iPhone?
Unfortunately, a couple of months ago the publisher of the app decided to pull it so it is no longer available for download, and those who have it on their phones prior to the decommissioning can still use it, but it is no longer supported with updates, etc. I’m going to have to hunt down another alternative that is just as good.
that is a shame. I’ll try to find something similar with features like this app. Sounds like it has been helpful to you.
It has been, for both writing and grocery shopping, lol. At least, I’m still able to use it for now, but eventually it will need replaced.