# Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity
## Overview
A comprehensive guide to stress-free productivity through systematic workflow management and organization. The core principle is that your mind is for having ideas, not holding them. The book presents a complete system for capturing, clarifying, organizing, reflecting, and engaging with all commitments, ideas, and projects.
## Details
- Author: David Allen
- Published: 2001
- Length: Long format
- Type: Book
- URL: <https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1633.Getting_Things_Done>
## Core Methodology
### The Five Steps of GTD
1. **Capture**
- Gather everything that has your attention
- Use multiple capture tools (physical inbox, digital tools, voice recorder)
- Get everything out of your head into external systems
2. **Clarify**
- Process what each item means
- Determine if it's actionable
- Identify next physical actions
- Apply the "Two-Minute Rule"
3. **Organize**
- Sort items into appropriate categories
- Maintain context-based lists (@Office, @Home, @Computer)
- Create project lists and reference files
- Track delegated items
4. **Reflect**
- Daily review of tasks and calendar
- Weekly review of system and projects
- Update and maintain lists
- Clear all inboxes
5. **Engage**
- Choose actions based on context, time, energy, and priority
- Execute tasks with clear focus
- Trust in the system
## Key Benefits
- Reduced mental load and stress
- Improved focus and clarity
- Enhanced productivity without overwhelm
- Better work-life balance
- Clear mind for creative thinking
- Trusted system for managing commitments
## Implementation Tools
- Physical and digital inboxes
- Task management systems
- Calendar
- Reference filing system
- Project lists
- Context-based action lists
- Weekly review checklist