How to Assign Checklist Items in Google Docs

Ready to start delegating? Google implemented the checklist feature in Google Docs as an easy way to manage tasks in your document. To go along with it, you now have the ability to assign items on your checklist.

When you collaborate with others in Google Docs, you can make sure everyone is doing their part. Create a checklist of tasks or roles, assign them to the appropriate team members, and even include two dates.

Note: The feature is available to customers of Google Workspace and previous versions of G Suite Basic and Business. It is not available for those with personal Google accounts.

Create a checklist in Google Docs

Just like using a bulleted or numbered list in Google Docs, a checklist basically works the same way. You can choose the type of list and enter your list items or select existing text and apply the checklist.

RELATED: How to create a checklist in Google Docs

To start a checklist, select the Checklist button on the toolbar or Format > Bullets and Numbering > Checklist from the menu.

You will see your first checkbox added and ready for your first list item. Type the list item, press Enter or Return, and type the next item until your list is complete.

Alternatively, if you already have your items in the document, you can turn them into a checklist. Select the text that contains the items you want in the list.

Click the Checklist button on the toolbar or choose Format > Bullets and Numbering > Checklist from the menu.

You will then have your checklist and can start assigning items.

Assign checklist items

Once you’ve set up a checklist in Google Docs, assigning items is easy.

RELATED: How to assign document tasks in Google Docs, Sheets and Slides

Hover over the list item you want to assign, or move the cursor to the left of the check box. Then click the Assign as Homework icon on the left.

Select the Assignee field and choose a contact from the list. If you haven’t already shared the document with your assignee, you’ll be prompted to do so when you assign the item.

If you want to include a due date, select the Date field and choose one from the pop-up calendar.

Select “Assign as homework” when finished.

You’ll see the person’s Google icon or profile picture next to the checklist item.

What the assignee sees

If you have Google Tasks turned on for those in your domain, they can manage assigned checklist items in your Tasks list.

RELATED: How to print your tasks from Google Docs, Chat and Gmail

When the people you share with view the document, they can hover over an assigned task for details.

After an assignee completes a task on the list, they simply check the box which they then cross off and dim the text indicating it is complete.

You will also receive an email notification when checklist items are marked complete.

RELATED: How to get notifications for comments and edits in Google Docs

Edit or delete an assigned task

You can change the assignee or due date, or remove the assignment from the task. Hover over the task assignee icon to view details.

• To make a change, select “Edit”. Change the assignee or expiration date and click “Save”.
• To remove the assignment, select the Delete (trash can) icon.

Assigning tasks for checklist items in Google Docs is a great way to keep everyone on track. For more information, see how to assign tasks in Google Drive.