How to add multiple tasks to OmniFocus using Workflow

My first foray into the GTD® (Getting Things Done) method started last year, and today I’m still using it to tackle everyday tasks. The first step, and quite possibly most important aspect of following the GTD method is to quickly capture everything that has our mental attention into an “external brain”.

When you’re on the go, apps are good replacement for pen and paper to store your tasks and ideas. After moving from 2Do a few months ago, now I’m solely using OmniFocus as my task manager of choice. There are many ways to do a brain dump into OmniFocus and one of the most effective ways is by using the Workflow app.

Once you have the Workflow app installed, you can download the workflow we’ll use right here. The great thing about this workflow is that it will work for more than just OmniFocus. You can also use it to add multiple tasks into any task manager you use. (i.e Wunderlist, Todoist, 2Do, etc.).

How to quickly add multiple tasks into OmniFocus using Workflow

1. Double tap the workflow inside of the Workflow app to run it
2. You’ll be asked for input. Here you can add multiple tasks line by line, and if you want to add notes, just add a hyphen after the task i.e “Buy shampoo and body wash-Grab some milk and tea also”
3. Tap OK when you’re done
4. Workflow will parse the text you inputted and put it into OmniFocus’ Inbox. All you need to do is tap Save when inside the OmniFocus app.
5. At the end of the Workflow you’ll be brought to the OmniFocus Inbox, and from there you can process those lists!

If you’re not using OmniFocus as your task manager, just swap the “Add OmniFocus Item” action at the end of the workflow with an action of the task manager you use. After that, the workflow will run similarly to what you see above.

If you prefer to stay inside of the Workflow app, remove the last two actions or if you’re not using OmniFocus, swap them with “Open App” actions and pick the task manager of your choice.

Workflow is one of the most versatile applications on iOS. It not only helps you get things done, but also helps you reduce mundane tasks. If Workflow seems overwhelming at first, check out Federico Viticci’s amazing starter guide.

What’s your favorite Workflow?

Workflow has infinite potential and if you’re already using it, I’d like to know what your favorite workflow to make your day more productive is! Let me know in the comments section below!