Create Work breakdown structure (WBS) codes for tasks to mark their unique places in your project outline. WBS codes can be used for reporting schedules and tracking costs.

Create subtasks and summary tasks to outline the task list in your project. Indent and outdent tasks to show their hierarchy.

If you frequently start your projects in Excel, try using one of the project templates there. They're designed to use the appropriate fields to make mapping from Excel to Project easier. In Excel, select File > New, and then pick a project template like the Microsoft Project Task List.

If you define a WBS code format, or mask, Microsoft Office Project completes the WBS field with a value corresponding to the task's outline level and WBS code mask. You can only enter a WBS code that matches the WBS code mask you defined.

Leverage built-in templates, Gantt charts, timelines, out-of-box reports, resource planning, and many other features to help manage your projects successfully. Learn more. Get started

Use the WBS Code Definition dialog box to create, review, or revise a uniform WBS code format, or mask. WBS codes are generally unique; that is, each task has a separate WBS code. Using the WBS field is most helpful if your company uses a specific WBS code system for project management. You can:

Example You use a custom WBS code structure in your project and you want to review the successors of tasks in your project to analyze and refine the schedule. You add the WBS Successors field to the Task Sheet view.

Use Work Breakdown Structure (or WBS) codes to outline tasks numerically so that work matches your business’s accounting practices. Top-down planning. Set up the major phases first and then break them down into individual tasks. How Project schedules tasks: Behind the scenes

Creating a master project and subprojects lets you break down a large project and delegate its parts to the necessary people. In project-management terms, assigning subprojects in this manner gives responsibility to those who do the work and matches authority with accountability.

Set a baseline for your project in Project to take a snapshot of your schedule that includes information about tasks, resources, and assignments. You can compare baselines as your project progresses to see how your project has changed over time.