The Notes app can turn lines into checkable checklist items. It is handy for groceries, packing, simple project lists, errands, and any lightweight task list that does not need a full task manager.
This guide applies to recent macOS versions with the built-in Notes app, and can sync to iPhone and iPad through iCloud.
Does This Affect You?
Use a Notes checklist when you want simple boxes you can tick off inside an ordinary note.
Create a New Checklist
- Open Notes and create a new note or open an existing one.
- Click where the checklist should begin.
- Click the checklist button in the toolbar, or press Command + Shift + L.
- Type the first item and press Return for the next checkbox line.
- Press Return twice or click the checklist button again to stop checklist mode.
- Click an empty circle to mark an item complete.
Turn Existing Text into a Checklist
- Open the note containing your typed list.
- Make sure each item is on its own line.
- Select the lines.
- Click the checklist button or press Command + Shift + L.
- Each line becomes a separate checklist item.
Checklist Tips
Keep Completed Items in Place
Notes can move checked items to the bottom by default. Change that in Notes settings if you want completed items to stay where they are.
Reorder Items
Hover near the left edge of a checklist line and drag the handle to move the item up or down.
Create Sub-Items
Press Tab at the beginning of a checklist line to indent it under the previous item.
Sync with iCloud
If Notes sync is enabled in iCloud settings, checklists update on your iPhone and iPad too.
Share an Editable Checklist
Use the Share button and allow the other person to make changes if you want them to check off items in the same note.
Sources
- Apple Support: Use checklists in Notes on Mac
- Apple Support: Get started with Notes on Mac
- Apple Support: Keep Notes up to date across devices