Convert Custom Fields in ClickUp

In ClickUp, you can convert custom fields between different levels of your Workspace so they are available exactly where your team needs them. This guide explains how to convert existing fields, what to expect during conversion, and how to avoid losing data when you adjust field locations.

Custom fields let you track key information beyond standard task properties. Over time, you may realize that a field created at the List level should really live at the Folder or Space level, or vice versa. Converting fields lets you correct that structure without rebuilding everything from scratch.

How custom fields work in ClickUp

Before you convert anything, it helps to understand where custom fields can live in ClickUp. A field can be created at any of these levels:

• List: The field is available only on tasks in a specific List.
• Folder: The field is shared by all Lists in that Folder.
• Space: The field is available across every Folder and List in that Space.

When you convert a field, you are changing the level where that field is defined. The same field name and type can be kept, but its scope expands or narrows depending on the direction of the conversion.

Where you can convert ClickUp custom fields

You can convert fields from several places in ClickUp. The options you see depend on your plan and on how your Workspace is set up. In general, you can access conversion from:

• The custom field manager in a List, Folder, or Space
• The task view when editing field settings
• Field settings inside views that display columns such as List view or Table view

Each of these entry points opens a panel where you can manage that field, including converting it to another level when available.

Steps to convert custom fields in ClickUp

Use the following process to convert an existing custom field from one level to another inside ClickUp.

1. Open the location that owns the field

1. Navigate to the Space, Folder, or List where the custom field was originally created.
2. Open a view that shows task fields, such as List or Table view.
3. Find a task that already uses the field so you can access its settings quickly.

2. Access custom field settings in ClickUp

1. In the task or view, hover over the custom field you want to convert.
2. Select the field’s settings or manage option (usually a small gear or three-dot menu).
3. In the panel that opens, confirm the field name and type to be sure you are editing the correct item.

3. Choose the new level for the field

1. Look for a Convert or Change location option.
2. Select the target level for the field, for example:
   • Convert from List to Folder.
   • Convert from Folder to Space.
   • Convert from Space to a more specific level when supported.
3. Review the summary of what will change when the conversion is applied.

4. Confirm the conversion in ClickUp

1. Read any warnings about existing data or locations where the field is already in use.
2. Confirm you want to continue with the conversion.
3. Wait for ClickUp to complete the update. For Workspaces with a large number of tasks, this can take a short time while fields are updated across all affected tasks.

What happens to data when you convert ClickUp fields

Converting a custom field changes where the field is defined but does not automatically remove data from tasks that already use it. In most cases:

• Existing values are preserved on tasks that already contain the field.
• The field becomes newly available to tasks in the broader location when you convert to a higher level (for example, to a Space).
• Tasks outside the new scope of the field will lose access if you convert the field to a more limited level.

Always verify the new scope and confirm which tasks and views should use the field before you complete the conversion.

Best practices for converting ClickUp custom fields

To keep your Workspace organized and avoid unexpected changes, follow these practical tips when working with custom fields in ClickUp.

Plan the ideal field hierarchy

• Use Space-level fields for data that needs to be tracked consistently across many Folders and Lists.
• Use Folder-level fields when multiple Lists share the same structure but do not need the field in the entire Space.
• Use List-level fields for unique workflows or one-off projects.

Check for duplicate fields in ClickUp

Over time, multiple teams may create similar fields with slightly different names. Before converting, look for duplicates such as:

• “Budget” vs. “Project Budget”
• “Client” vs. “Customer”
• Multiple Status or Dropdown fields tracking the same concept

If duplicates exist, decide which field should become the standard, then convert and consolidate usage around that field.

Review views and automations

Converting a field can affect other areas of ClickUp that reference it. After conversion, check:

• Saved filters and views that rely on the field
• Dashboards and widgets that display data from the field
• Automations triggered by field values

Make sure everything continues to work as expected and update any configuration that points to the old field location.

Troubleshooting custom field conversions in ClickUp

If you do not see the option to convert a field, or the result is not what you expected, consider the following common issues.

You cannot find the convert option

• Confirm you have permission to manage custom fields in that Space.
• Check that you are editing the original field, not a similar field with the same or similar name.
• Make sure you are working from a view or task where the field actually belongs to that location.

The field seems missing after conversion

• Verify you are viewing tasks within the new level where the field now lives.
• In List or Table view, customize visible columns and add the converted field if it is hidden.
• Search the field name inside the field manager to confirm it exists at the expected level.

Data looks inconsistent

• Check if multiple fields with similar names still exist at different levels.
• Open a few sample tasks to confirm which field instance is displayed.
• Gradually migrate data into the correct field if you previously used duplicates.

Learn more about ClickUp custom fields

For the full reference on converting and managing custom fields, including visual examples, see the official documentation on the ClickUp Help Center: Convert Custom Fields.

If you are building a broader workspace structure or need help optimizing your project management stack around ClickUp, you can also review expert resources at Consultevo for strategy and implementation guidance.

By carefully planning your field hierarchy and using the conversion tools available in ClickUp, you can keep your Workspace clean, make reporting more accurate, and ensure every team works with consistent, reliable data.

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