How to Write a To Do List with the LNO Framework
We face a wide range of tasks every day across multiple projects and roles. A to do list is a simple and effective way to manage time and hit goals, yet listing tasks alone rarely maximizes productivity. This is where the LNO framework helps.
The LNO framework classifies work strategically so you can focus on what matters most. By doing so, you get the greatest results for the time you invest and make your to do list far more effective. Below is what LNO means and how to apply it to your list.
What is the LNO framework?
LNO stands for Leverage, Needle Movers, and Optimization. Each category describes a different type of task and its importance.
- Leverage refers to tasks that deliver outsized results for relatively small effort. These are high return activities. Examples include introducing an automation tool that cuts repetitive work or securing support through networking with influential partners.
- Needle Movers are tasks that directly and significantly affect your goals. Because they move outcomes the most, they deserve first priority. Preparing for a meeting with a key client or building a core product feature belong here.
- Optimization means tasks that improve processes or systems to raise efficiency over the long term. The payoff is lasting improvement rather than immediate results. Examples include documenting team workflows or learning a new technology.
Product leaders in Silicon Valley, including Shreyas Doshi, are known to use this framework.
How to apply LNO to your to do list
First, gather every task in one place. Do not judge importance yet. Capture everything that comes to mind so you can see the full picture.
Next, classify each task as L, N, or O. Ask how much the task influences your goals and how efficient it is. If something produces a large result with modest effort, it is Leverage. If it directly drives the goal, it is a Needle Mover. If it improves your system for the future, it is Optimization.
Then execute in this order. Do the Needle Movers first because they affect outcomes most. Follow with Leverage items to harvest high return wins. Work on Optimization when time allows to strengthen long term efficiency.
A worked example
Imagine you are a project manager with the following list.
- Prepare for a new marketing strategy meeting
- Analyze customer survey results
- Tidy and reply to email
- Hold a task allocation meeting with the team
- Write the project report
- Learn a new software tool
- Write a blog post
Now let us categorize these tasks using the LNO framework.
Needle Movers: preparing for the marketing strategy meeting, writing the project report. Both directly influence major company goals, so they come first.
Leverage: analyzing survey results, running the task allocation meeting. Each requires modest effort but can quickly improve product direction and team throughput.
Optimization: tidying and replying to email, learning a new tool, writing a blog post. These help over time but are less tied to immediate outcomes.
Work through the Needle Movers first, then Leverage, and finally Optimization if time remains.
Advantages of the LNO framework
- Clear priorities
By sorting tasks by impact, you remove guesswork about what to start with. This clarity raises efficiency and lowers stress.
2. Better use of time
Focusing on the most influential work first gives you the greatest outcome for the hours available and reduces time lost on low value activity.
3. Continuous improvement
Optimization tasks keep you getting better. Process fixes and new skills reduce future workload and raise performance for both individuals and teams.
Tips for effective use
Review on a cadence
: Check your list daily or weekly and reassess priorities. Importance changes with context, so regular reviews keep you aligned with reality.
Stay flexible
: Use the framework as guidance rather than a rigid rulebook. Adjust when urgent events arise, and judge by actual impact rather than preference.
Celebrate small wins
: Acknowledge completed high impact tasks. Sharing wins and feedback with teammates maintains momentum.
Conclusion
The LNO framework helps you move beyond a flat list by classifying work and setting priorities that reflect real impact. Apply it to your to do list and small adjustments can lead to large results. With clearer priorities, better time use, and steady improvement, you will reach your goals faster and raise the quality of your day.