ClickUp Subtasks Guide

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How to Use Subtasks in ClickUp

ClickUp makes it simple to break complex work into smaller, manageable pieces using subtasks. This how-to guide walks you through creating, viewing, and managing subtasks so your team can stay organized and track every detail of a task.

Subtasks help you turn a single task into a structured checklist with its own assignees, due dates, and statuses, giving you clear visibility into each part of your workflow.

What Are Subtasks in ClickUp?

In ClickUp, a subtask is a child task nested under a parent task. It behaves like a full task, but it is linked directly to the work it supports. This keeps related work grouped together in one place.

Use subtasks when a task:

  • Contains several distinct steps or deliverables
  • Requires multiple people to work on different portions
  • Needs more detail than a simple checklist item provides

Each subtask has its own:

  • Status
  • Assignee
  • Due date
  • Time tracked
  • Custom Fields
  • Comments and attachments

How to Create Subtasks in ClickUp

You can create subtasks directly from a task view or from certain ClickUp views where tasks are listed.

Create a subtask from a task in ClickUp

  1. Open the parent task where you want to add subtasks.
  2. Locate the Subtasks section in the task window.
  3. Click + Add subtask.
  4. Type the name of your new subtask.
  5. Press Enter to save it.

Once created, you can click on the subtask name to open it and add more details such as descriptions, assignees, due dates, or attachments.

Create subtasks from views in ClickUp

Depending on your settings, you may also be able to create subtasks from List, Board, or other task views:

  1. Hover over an existing task in your ClickUp view.
  2. Click the three-dot More menu for that task.
  3. Select Add subtask or New subtask.
  4. Enter the subtask name and press Enter.

This method is helpful when you are planning a project and want to quickly add multiple subtasks to a task without opening each task individually.

How to View Subtasks in ClickUp

Subtasks can appear in different ways depending on how you prefer to visualize your work in ClickUp.

Display subtasks in task views

In List or Board views, you can choose whether subtasks display nested under the parent, or as separate items:

  1. Open a List or Board view.
  2. Click the Subtasks settings icon (often in view settings or filters).
  3. Choose how you want subtasks to appear, for example:
    • Hide subtasks
    • Nesting to show them under their parent tasks
    • Separate to show subtasks as individual tasks in the view

Changing this setting helps you see either a high-level overview or a detailed breakdown of all subtasks.

Open subtasks from a parent task in ClickUp

When you open a parent task, all its subtasks are listed in the Subtasks section. From there, you can:

  • Expand or collapse the list of subtasks
  • Click into any subtask to open it in full view
  • See key details such as assignees, statuses, and due dates

This nested view keeps everything related to a piece of work in one place.

How to Manage Subtasks in ClickUp

After creating subtasks, you can manage them just like regular tasks. This flexibility lets you control every phase of your workflow.

Assign and schedule subtasks in ClickUp

To assign responsibility and schedule work for subtasks:

  1. Open a subtask.
  2. Click the Assignee field and choose one or more team members.
  3. Click the Due date field to set a date and time.
  4. Adjust the status to indicate progress, such as To Do, In Progress, or Complete.

Each subtask can have different assignees and dates, allowing you to plan complex workflows over time.

Edit and reorder subtasks in ClickUp

You can quickly refine your subtask structure:

  • Rename subtasks: Click the subtask name, edit the text, and press Enter.
  • Reorder subtasks: Drag and drop subtasks within the Subtasks section of the parent task.
  • Update fields: Change assignees, statuses, priorities, and Custom Fields without opening each subtask fully, depending on your layout.

Convert subtasks in ClickUp

If a subtask grows in scope, you can convert it:

  • Convert a subtask to a task: Use the subtask’s more options menu to turn it into a standalone task.
  • Convert a task to a subtask: When needed, you can nest an existing task under another task as a subtask.

Conversion options allow you to adapt your structure as projects evolve.

Best Practices for Using Subtasks in ClickUp

To get the most value from subtasks, follow these practical guidelines when organizing work in ClickUp.

Structure work clearly

  • Use the parent task for the overall deliverable or goal.
  • Create subtasks for distinct steps, phases, or owners.
  • Avoid making subtasks too granular; keep them meaningful and outcome-focused.

Keep visibility and reporting in mind

  • Choose subtask display options that suit your team’s reporting needs.
  • Ensure team members know whether they should work from parent tasks or subtasks.
  • Use statuses and due dates on subtasks so progress reporting is accurate.

Collaborate effectively in ClickUp subtasks

  • Add comments directly to subtasks for specific discussions.
  • Attach files to the relevant subtask instead of crowding the parent task.
  • Mention teammates in comments so they receive clear, targeted notifications.

Learn More About Subtasks in ClickUp

For the full product documentation and latest details about subtasks, visit the official help center article: Intro to subtasks in ClickUp.

If you want expert help implementing task structures, workflows, and documentation around ClickUp in your organization, you can find consulting and training services at Consultevo.

By using subtasks thoughtfully, your team can transform complex projects into clear, trackable work in ClickUp, ensuring every step is documented, assigned, and delivered on time.

Need Help With ClickUp?

If you want expert help building, automating, or scaling your ClickUp workspace, work with ConsultEvo — trusted ClickUp Solution Partners.

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