The Complete Guide to Time Blocking with Google Calendar

Time blocking is one of the most effective productivity techniques, and Google Calendar is the perfect tool to implement it. In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to use time blocking to get more done.

What is Time Blocking?

Time blocking is a time management method where you divide your day into blocks of time, each dedicated to a specific task or group of tasks. Instead of working from a to-do list and hoping you'll get everything done, you schedule when you'll work on each task.

Why Time Blocking Works

• Eliminates decision fatigue - You don't waste mental energy deciding what to work on next
• Creates accountability - When a task has a scheduled time, you're more likely to do it
• Reduces multitasking - Each block is dedicated to one thing
• Provides realistic expectations - You can see if you've overcommitted

How to Start Time Blocking

Step 1: List Your Tasks

Start by writing down everything you need to accomplish. Don't worry about organizing yet—just get it all out of your head.

Step 2: Estimate Time for Each Task

Be realistic. Most people underestimate how long tasks take. Add 25% buffer time to your initial estimates.

Step 3: Schedule Blocks in Google Calendar

Open Google Calendar and start creating events for each task. Key tips:

• Use colors to categorize different types of work
• Include buffer time between blocks for breaks and transitions
• Protect your peak hours for your most important work
• Batch similar tasks together when possible

Step 4: Respect Your Blocks

Treat these time blocks like meetings. Don't let other things intrude during a scheduled block.

Time Blocking Best Practices

Start with Your Most Important Tasks

Schedule your highest-priority work during your peak energy hours. For most people, this is morning.

Include Breaks

Don't schedule back-to-back blocks all day. Include short breaks between blocks and longer breaks for meals.

Leave Buffer Time

Things take longer than expected. Leave gaps in your schedule for overflow and unexpected tasks.

Review and Adjust Weekly

At the end of each week, review what worked and what didn't. Adjust your approach accordingly.

The Easier Way: Automatic Time Blocking

Manually creating calendar events for every task can be tedious. That's why tools like Skedio exist—add a task, and it automatically appears in your Google Calendar as a time block.

No manual event creation. No copying between apps. Just add tasks and they're scheduled.

Conclusion

Time blocking is simple in concept but powerful in practice. By giving every task a specific time in your calendar, you create a realistic plan for your day and dramatically increase your chances of actually completing your work.

Whether you implement time blocking manually or use a tool to automate it, the key is to start. Try blocking out tomorrow's schedule today, and see how much more you accomplish.