How to use GitHub Projects for task management?

 
Step 1: Access the Projects Tab in Your Repository
 

Before you start managing tasks with GitHub Projects, ensure you’re in the correct repository.

Go to your repository on GitHub
Click on the “Projects” tab in the top navigation (next to Code, Issues, Pull requests)

• If “Projects” is not visible, you may need to enable it under your repository’s Settings > Features > check “Projects”.

 
Step 2: Create a New Project Board
 

Click the green “New project” button.
Choose “From template” or “Create a project (classic)” if you want the original board style, or select “Projects (beta)” for the new experience.

• Enter a name (e.g., “Sprint Planning”).
• Optionally add a description and link to a team or repository.
• Click “Create”.

 
Step 3: Understand the Board Interface
 

Your board has columns (like “To do”, “In progress”, “Done”) and cards (issues, pull requests, or notes).

• Columns organize status.
• Cards represent units of work.
• The right sidebar shows filters and project settings.

 
Step 4: Add Issues and Notes as Cards
 

You can add existing issues or create new ones directly in Projects.

• Click “+” under a column and choose “Add cards”.
• Select “Issue” to pick from existing issues, or “Note” to write a task description without an issue.
• To create a brand-new issue:

# Example: Create an issue via GitHub CLI
gh issue create \\
  --repo owner/repo \\
  --title "Design login page" \\
  --body "Create wireframes and gather feedback"

 
Step 5: Move and Update Cards
 

Drag and drop cards between columns to update status.
Click a card to open its details panel:

• Edit title or description.
• Assign a milestone, labels, or assignees.
• Add comments or attachments.

 
Step 6: Customize Columns and Automate Actions
 

Rename or delete columns by clicking the three-dot menu on the column header.
Enable automation rules to move cards when issues change state.

• In the column menu, choose “Automate”.
• Select triggers like “When an issue is closed, move card to Done”.

 
Step 7: Filter and View Tasks
 

Use filters to focus on specific tasks.

• Click “Filters” in the top right of the board.
• Filter by assignee, label, milestone, or custom field.
• Save your filter as a view for quick access later.

 
Step 8: Link Pull Requests and Issues Automatically
 

When a pull request is created that references an issue, GitHub can auto-link it to your project.

• Use “closes #issue\_number” in the PR description to auto-close and move the issue card.

# Example PR description snippet
This PR implements the login form UI.

Closes #23

 
Step 9: Collaborate with Your Team
 

Assign cards to team members to distribute work:

• Open a card and click “Assignees” to add collaborators.
• Use comments to discuss requirements or blockers.
• Tag teammates with @username for notifications.

 
Step 10: Track Progress and Close Your Project
 

Monitor overall status with the “Progress” bar and charts (beta).
When all cards reach the “Done” column, you can archive the project:

• Click the project’s settings (gear icon).
• Select “Archive project”.

Your tasks are now organized, tracked, and easily managed through GitHub Projects!