Task Lists in Markdown

Task lists are used to create interactive lists with checkable items. They are ideal for tracking progress, creating a to-do list, and project planning.

Basic task list syntax

Task lists are created by using a hyphen/dash and square brackets with either a space for incomplete tasks or an x for completed tasks. This is followed by the task description.

Syntax:

- [ ] Incomplete task
- [x] Completed task

Result:

• Incomplete task
• Completed task

Nesting task lists

You can create a nested task lists by indenting items:

Syntax:

- [ ] Task 1
  - [x] Nested task 1.1
  - [x] Nested task 1.2
- [ ] Task 2
  - [ ] Nested task 2.1

Result:

• Task 1
  • Nested task 1.1
  • Nested task 1.2
• Task 2
  • Nested task 2.1

Combining with other list types

Task lists can be combined with ordered lists:

1. [ ] First ordered task
2. [x] Second ordered task
   * [ ] Unordered subtask
   * [x] Another unordered subtask
3. [ ] Third ordered task

Task list formatting

Task descriptions can include Markdown syntax such as code, links, and text formatting:

Syntax:

- [x] Visit our [Markdown course](/course/markdown/introduction-to-markdown/introduction-to-markdown) to get started.
- [ ] *Either* complete the course in order, or choose which lessons you require.
- [ ] Use a **task list** to track your progress.

Result:

• Visit our Markdown course to get started.
• Either complete the course in order, or choose which lessons you require.
• Use a task list to track your progress.

HTML equivalent

If your Markdown processor does not support task lists, you can use HTML as a fallback:

<ul>
  <li><input type="checkbox" checked> Completed task</li>
  <li><input type="checkbox"> Incomplete task</li>
</ul>

Result:

• Completed task
• Incomplete task