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Show HN: I built an app to create repeatable checklists to help with ADHD

282 points by Swalden123 5y ago

Swalden123 5y ago
Hi Guys, I'm Spencer and recently built CheckYourList to help with my ADHD. The app lets you create repeatable checklists. It's great for packing lists, daily routines, cleaning lists and things that you need to take with you constantly. The reason it is different to apps like Apple reminders is once you complete a checklist you can uncheck every item so it is ready to go next time. I built the app because I found myself forgetting things more and more after the birth of my son. For example, dropping him at daycare and then going to the gym, required so many things. I felt overwhelmed and would take ages to leave the house as I searched around looking for what I needed. I wanted a solution, I built this app to help. The app is available on iOS and WatchOS and syncs between the two with all the data in iCloud (I never see the data). I'm constantly iterating the app, I am currently working on the ability to keep a history of checklists you have completed so you can check you did things (like taking medication every morning). If anyone has any ideas for features they would like to see let me know :) I'm mainly a web developer, I've put a lot of work in my spare time over the last six months learning iOS development and swift. The app is built in SwiftUI, which coming from javascript the syntax was quite comfortable, although the language does have some very big differences. The most difficult thing was learning where SwiftUI would not work and how to drop down to UIKit where needed. Things like how to focus a text field programmatically are missing in SwiftUI (coming in iOS15). A big thank you to Paul Hudson at hackingwithswift.com as without his HWS+ videos I don't think I could have built a production ready app as most tutorials don't cover production scenarios and apples documentation is truely terrible. His information on core data was invaluable. You can see the app in the app store here: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/checkyourlist/id1571623264 https://apps.apple.com/au/app/checkyourlist/id1571623264
- playpause 5y ago
  This looks amazing. I spent a lot of time searching for something exactly like this earlier this year, but eventually gave up. I set up a Shortcuts automation to do something similar: I have a few lists in Apple Reminders that I use as repeatable checklists, and every night the shortcut runs and just unchecks all the items. It works, and has really improved my life, but it has a few very annoying limitations. So I’m really looking forward to trying this, thanks. Edit: tried it, it looks great, only one issue for me is the dialog that automatically pops up when the last item is checked. If you could add a way to completely turn that feature off then I would pay for this in a heartbeat. It might seem a tiny thing but that automatic popup would make it impossible for me to use this app, with my kind of ADHD. Also, there doesn’t seem to be a way to edit an item once created. Otherwise it looks great.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Sounds like you went through the same process I did as well :) I was surprised to find a lack of apps that have repeatable checklists. I did something similar to you with google forms. I had a shortcut set up to launch a google form to go through. Smart idea with using a shortcut the uncheck the items! Let me know how you go with the app :) Especially if it is missing anything you think you need.
    - bobmaxup 5y ago
      There are a number of habit apps I have seen that sort of fall into this niche. Some have checklists.
      - playpause 5y ago
        Please give any example! I have never found anything that specifically does repeatable checklists.
        nokya 5y ago
        Same here. Been searching for such apps for years (Android phone) and still haven't found one app designed for people who use repeatable lists. All the "best" apps I have tested are a complete mess when it comes to simply restarting a checklist you've completed already.
        jamessb 5y ago
        Checkli: https://www.checkli.com/ https://www.checkli.com/ Process Street: https://www.process.st/ https://www.process.st/ https://checklist.com/ https://checklist.com/ also lets you create "checklist templates"
        vassilevsky 5y ago
        I've been using Process Street for a year or so. It's not exactly simple.
        5y ago
- AnonHP 5y ago
  I have feedback on the name of the app. Since it’s spelled without spaces, as “CheckYourList”, it doesn’t show up in search results when searching for “check your list”.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Great feedback! I'll add check your list to the apps keywords in the next update so it comes up in the future.
- rvanlaar 5y ago
  Hey, great that you were able to finish it. Congrats. I found the power checklists bring a couple years ago. I've primarily used process street for it. Works greats for me.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    I don't think I ever got around to trying process street, their focus on teams put me off a bit. Finishing it was quite the challenge :P I've spent the last 10 years getting a lot of different projects to 90% done and then moving on.
- jonpurdy 5y ago
  Typing one-handed since I have my 4-day-old newborn napping in my arms now as her mom gets some rest. Even before having her, I have found it difficult to find a balance between high level to do lists (missing details), and more detailed checklists (that are harder to manage). Keeping the simple repeatable stuff separate should make it easier to offload that cognition from my brain so I can focus on the stuff I NEED to think about. Looking forward to trying it out!
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    A lot of this app was written with one hand while holding a baby :) I never realised how overwhelmed I was by my todo app until I pulled my checklists into this app, I've found it definitely helped. Let me know how you go :)
    - jonpurdy 5y ago
      Quick feedback: this is an interface paradigm that I haven't thought of before (and haven't stumbled upon, if it exists in other apps). Immediately recognized how useful it is and I've already set up a few checklists. And the UI itself is simple and to the point without any BS (probably because you're independent and don't need to hit OKRs), and matches iOS so it was easy to jump into and get started. Thanks and please continue development!
      - Swalden123 5y ago
        Thanks for your kind words :)
    - j45 5y ago
      I too have realized the value of Apple Watch and voice interfaces (Siri, Google, Alexa) when your hands are constantly full. I remember seeing someone had created a way to code using voice commands in dragon dictate and I’m wondering if it could be valuable to new parents
- jhunter1016 5y ago
  I just recently released my first iOS app written in SwiftUI and HackingWithSwift was such a lifesaver. Glad to see others find it as valuable as I did. Great job on this app. My son has ADHD and struggles mightily with repeating tasks each day. Downloading it on his iPad to see if it helps!
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Its definitely the best resource out there! Just a heads up re iPad, some people have been reporting issues with the iPad version. I'll be working on the iPad compatibility soon to ensure it all works.
- nojs 5y ago
  I love the simplicity and clean UI. Don’t add too many features! This is the problem with a lot of todo list type apps.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Thank you :) I'm going to keep it as simple as I can
- omarhaneef 5y ago
  Echo what others say: nice interface, and you found something useful in a very crowded space. The only feature I would add is: shareable, community lists. I’d like to know the standard list everyone else has voted on to do taxes, register a car in a state, or whatever else. (Diligence a company?) I feel like I’m missing out on the wisdom of others in how to do some things.
  - j45 5y ago
    Shared lists with your significant other, roommate, etc, would be very helpful. Groups in general (work, family, volunteer responsibilities) would be super useful.
    - city41 5y ago
      Not to discount this app, but Trello is pretty nice here. My wife and I have several boards shared between us. It's especially cool to be at home and add a few things to the grocery board, then the other checks their phone and grabs the things while they were already out.
      - j45 5y ago
        Trello could work nice, I’ll revisit it, thanks! Reminders and minimizing clicks is key for me.
- jw1224 5y ago
  Great job! Funnily enough, I’ve been thinking about building something exactly like this for months… But naturally, with ADHD, I kept putting it off :-) Repeating checklists are so useful, and I’m surprised other task managers haven’t really seemed to implement them as fully as you have. Well done!
  - thanksforfish 5y ago
    I recently changed my opinion on todo list type projects. I previously thought it was a crowded place and a solved problem, not worth building yet another. But a todo list is such a powerful tool and has so many different use cases that each new variation can focus on a different niche and brings new value. Great work!
- pjerem 5y ago
  Nice job ! It would be cool to have presets / shared checklists. I found that items are difficult to check using only right hand. Maybe allow to check from the entire item and make them bigger ? However, I found it to be simple & nice.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Sharing checklists/presets/a checklist community is definitely something I am considering :) I'm going to make an update soon to make the entire item tappable.
- Rd6n6 5y ago
  > the developer does not collect any data If true, that is very refreshing and nice to read
  - tannedNerd 5y ago
    This is not the best take on this, as that means no crash reporting and no metrics. I think people need to realize 99% of indie devs aren’t doing anything nefarious with anonymous crash and client user data and just want to deliver a better product to you, their users.
    - deleted 5y ago
      [deleted]
- pedrovhb 5y ago
  That's amazing! I had the exact same idea, and just last week or so started picking up Kotlin to implement it. I've been using Tasker with AutoWear for a makeshift version of this and it _works_, but is obviously not ideal (bits of code everywhere, bad UI). Another thing I thought of was to keep track of the time spent in each subtask and have the watch vibrate to remind you to focus if you take more than a couple of standard deviations to finish a given step. I'd love to use yours. Unfortunately as I'm an Android guy I'll have to build it myself still :)
- throwawaysea 5y ago
  Hi - can you say more about how you’re keeping data secure and encrypted and such? Checklists can include some very personal information so I think having a strong security and privacy practice can help with adoption since it is hard to trust a random new app versus built in apps.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Hi! Basically the data is stored in iCloud in the same way your Apple reminders and notes are. I never have access to the data as it is stored on your local device and Apples server. So in terms of security and privacy, your essentially trusting Apple itself.
- skittleson 5y ago
  My name is also Spencer and have been diagnosed the same . This is a great niche app. Any app I've used for todo lists couldn't get this right so I'm glad to see it. The one feedback is a configurable task max limit. My time is very valuable so I have to limit what todo to the most valuable tasks.
- meej 5y ago
  This is excellent work! I've currently got all my reusable checklists in Remember the Milk, but they get lost in there among all my other hundreds of todos. I'm always surprised how few todo apps seem to target reusable lists, it's definitely an overlooked niche. Back in the Palm Pilot and early iOS days, SplashData's SplashShopper app was fantastic at this, but they don't seem to be able to keep up with modern application development update/release cycles and it's slowly become unusable over time. Anyway- you asked for feature requests. 1. Consider making lists organizable in some way -- make them nestable or categorizeable. Like, my travel checklist in RTM consists of multiple sub-lists: clothing, electronics, toiletries, medical, etc. Splash Shopper does this with a sortable category on each item. 2. Consider adding prepopulated lists, particularly for things like groceries where the list can have lots of common items, will likely be long, and building it from scratch may feel daunting. 3. Consider having separate views for all the items on the list vs. everything that currently needs checking off. Like, when I travel or go grocery shopping, I may not need everything on the whole list. Let me build a list from a bank of all the items in the list rather than forcing me to uncheck everything in order to reuse the list and then prune the stuff that I don't need on the list for this particular trip.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    I have that same problem with todo apps where things get lost in them. Definitely want to add categorising lists soon. For pre-populated lists I was planning on some sort of community/sharing system in the ftureu. For your 3. would categorising/nesting lists cover that?
- charwalker 5y ago
  Any push for an Android version?
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Not currently in the works. Once I'm happy the iOS app is bug free and where I want it to be I will potential build one.
- chezuma 5y ago
  Hey there Spencer, This was a really nice looking app and hit the spot for my ADHD brain! Nice with no recurring payment! Consider me a customer. -chezuma
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Glad it hit the spot for you :)
laurieg 5y ago
I really like checklists. If you need convincing, read Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande. They let you focus on the decisions rather than remembering the steps.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  That book was one of the things that started me looking for an app to let me make recurring checklists :) I still to do this day can't believe I finished a book on checklists!
shreyshnaccount 5y ago
nice looking app, nice premise, too bad it's not on Android tho, but I like it a lot and wish you well ♥
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Thank you :)
mysterydip 5y ago
My phone currently has 19 alarms on it with things like "feed cat", "put dishes away", and "give child medicine". The difficult part is that I don't always get to do the thing when I have the alarm set: Kids get up later or eat lunch earlier, we are out running an errand, etc. I'll give this a try, thanks!
- Swalden123 5y ago
  I've often done the same thing! My phone is often on do not disturb as well, so alarms are the only way to get on time reminders. My apple watch has helped as I can hit snooze quickly and a lot more easily. Todo apps tend to get filled with so many things, so I've been using CheckYourList to keep track of things like you mentioned to keep them away from my overflowing todo inbox.
austincheney 5y ago
Serious question. I have a foster child with severe ADHD. How can I teach them to shut the hell up? It sometimes take 20 or 30 words to say something that can be said in maybe 4 words. When they ask questions they don’t wait for answers before saying other things. It’s like talking as an exercise to continuously hear your own voice like political talk radio but even less intelligible and all over the place. A continuous stream of talking long past having anything worth talking about that people don’t want to listen to. Their communications and social skills are severely affected and under developed and immature because they won’t shut the hell up. They can’t listen because either they are talking or they are deliberately pausing the talking to pretend to listen only to be thinking about other bullshit they wish was spoken.
- arthurcolle 5y ago
  Vyvanse
- jsbdk 5y ago
  Why are you taking care of a children that's so annoying? It's like having a dog that won't stop chewing your things. At some point you have to say "you've taken enough of my sanity away". You have to get rid of toxic people.
  - tjpnz 5y ago
    A child is not a dog nor is it a "toxic person" you can simply get rid of.
    - jsbdk 5y ago
      It is when it is not really your child.
- hrh 5y ago
  I don't mean to ask the obvious question, but have you taken them to the doctor? It's very well possible that they literally can't "shut the hell up". You are frustrated, but they need your empathy. If you have not taken them to a doctor (psychiatrist more specifically) please seriously consider doing so. My 14 year old adopted brother is going through similar issues and is embarrassed and afraid to take the steps he needs to take. I have to explain to him that if I could have this helped when I was 14 instead of 34...I sure as hell would have.
adge 5y ago
"I felt overwhelmed and would take ages to leave the house" I identify with this so strongly and my friends and family have commented on it as well... Unfortunately I don't have an iPhone. I would love to try it if you ported it to a web app though!
- Swalden123 5y ago
  A web app is definitely a possibility as it is something I can build, where as Android I'm starting from scratch.
  - kecupochren 5y ago
    Have you considered a PWA?
    - Swalden123 5y ago
      Yes. The reason I built an iOS app was it is the simplest way to get an app live, if the app gains traction I can definitely expand its availability in the future. Problem with web apps is I often end up with decision fatigue over picking platforms ect. A native app I could just jump in and build.
      - rovr138 5y ago
        First thing I did was check the privacy policy and then come here to talk about it. Saw your other comment regarding the privacy policy needing a lot of rework and that’s it’s all local and I went back to download it. I was fine trusting that comment. — Personally, I would not use this app if it needed an account or server. I’m sorry. I don’t know you and the privacy policy things are too broad. I’m very conflicted now. I don’t want all my data to sync some random server on an update because it went web. Will this happen? Will you make it optional? Third party trackers? I can accept crashes of course, but can you confirm that none of the data or what was being input is sent? The reason I have iCloud is to sync apps so the data is available between all my devices. Thankfully I don’t need medicines or a care routine, huh for someone that does, the personal data they’d be leaking is huge. If something happened to your servers, this can also liability issues too. . I’m sorry to bring this up and I get it’s a lot, but I really liked the idea and think it’d be helpful. I’m just conflicted now between this, the privacy policy and the comment you made where it’s all local.
hrh 5y ago
...is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, bouts of excessive energy, hyper-fixation, and impulsivity, which are otherwise not appropriate for a person's age.[1][2][3][4] Some individuals with ADHD also display difficulty regulating emotions or problems with executive function.[1][5][6][7] For a diagnosis, the symptoms have to be present for more than six months, and cause problems in at least two settings (such as school, home, work, or recreational activities).[1][2] In children, problems paying attention may result in poor school performance.[8] Additionally, it is associated with other mental disorders and substance use disorders.[9] Although it causes impairment, particularly in modern society, many people with ADHD can have sustained attention for tasks they find interesting or rewarding (known as hyperfocus).[10][11] People with ADHD of all ages are more likely to have problems with social skills, such as social interaction and forming and maintaining friendships. This is true for all presentations. About half of children and adolescents with ADHD experience social rejection by their peers compared to 10–15% of non-ADHD children and adolescents. People with attention deficits are prone to having difficulty processing verbal and nonverbal language which can negatively affect social interaction. They also may drift off during conversations, miss social cues, and have trouble learning social skills.[54] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivit...
bittermandel 5y ago
This is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you so much. I've recently discovered together with my psychologist that I am "suffering" of something along the lines of ADHD. This includes selective memory (only remember what I focus on remembering), missing social cues and feeling overwhelmed if I have to suddenly do something I did not expect. I've just started my journey in figuring out how I can live my best life, so I hope this way of creating repeatable checklists can help me on the way.
- deleted 5y ago
  [deleted]
- Bellamy 5y ago
  I use Habinator. It's not just a checklist but works as one as well.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Habit apps are definitely the closest thing I've found.
- deregulateMed 5y ago
  I find these tools work great until you "cave" and ignore it. Like I had a reminder app, worked great for 2 weeks until I ignored it one day. Then it became easy to ignore. I find this true for every brain hack I've found. It works until my brain realizes it doesn't need to listen. I don't want to use drugs for ADHD. Especially after seeing my uncle ruin his life over the course of a decade. Productive, excelled, drug addiction, stagnation, collapse. I'm glad he drunkenly told me to stay off it.
  - seunosewa 5y ago
    I don't think you should take medical advice from an alcoholic. It's unlikely that your uncle's life was ruined by ADHD medication. I bet alcohol and other recreational drugs had more to do with it.
flemhans 5y ago
A bit of a copy of http://doableapps.com http://doableapps.com isn't it?
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Haven't seen it before, but it is quite different I think. CheckYourList basically lets you create a list with multiple items in it, which when complete can be reset, ready to go through again. doableapps is more fo a todo app if i'm not wrong?
alasano 5y ago
Yes but do you have anything to remind me to check the checklist app? Even better, some sort of checklist app aggregator app which goes through my various checklist apps that I forget to check? The same thing for note taking apps would be great too. Jokes aside, congrats on launching your app
- Swalden123 5y ago
  If you put the app on your home screen it does say "CheckYourList", that might help :P
- tedmiston 5y ago
  If you truly want something naggingly persistent, the Due app [1][2] is very full-featured and has an "auto snooze" feature that allows you to have a reminder send you a push notification e.g., every 10 minutes, indefinitely. [1]: https://www.dueapp.com/ https://www.dueapp.com/ [2]: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/due/id390017969 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/due/id390017969
pgn674 5y ago
Aww man, I've got an Android phone. Anyone know of any alternatives for Android? I'm currently using TickTick, but daily or activity based repeatable tasks isn't its focus. I was only able to get what I need because of its decently powerful filter.
- jvns 5y ago
  Google Keep lets you make checklists and it's easy to uncheck everything on the list. I use it to make "leaving the house" lists etc.
  - nokya 5y ago
    I tried Keep a few years ago and I'm pretty sure this option wasn't there and needed to uncheck all items. I gave up at the time. I just reopened it after reading your comments and found this "uncheck all boxes". It looks like you improved my life, thanks :)
- tjpnz 5y ago
  Samsung Notes is perfect for this assuming you use a Samsung device.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Hopefully I'll make an Android version in the future, or a web app. I used TickTick alot for this previously, I used to check the items complete then when I wanted to go through the list again I would just uncheck them and then the next day it would be checking them if that makes sense.
  - nokya 5y ago
    Same experience. I was quite surprised when I discovered the app to be so limited for users who operate in repeatable "mode". It's like these creators all read the checklist manifesto and didn't understand the core concept.
    - Swalden123 5y ago
high_byte 5y ago
rarely do I want an app but please make an Android version
- Swalden123 5y ago
  I hope too in the future :)
gexla 5y ago
Regularly for Android seems similar. I find that having something on my screen while working is also useful. What I'm doing now is using something with a simple UI (like Notepad on Windows) and Power Tools to create a dedicated spot on my desktop space. Whenever something comes to mind, I jot it down. Most important is that I write out the next thing that I want to be working on and then indented is the next step. I might create a section for each project where I'll place further steps which I thought of which I haven't arrived to yet. I still add my current items to the "Stream" section. Whenever I find myself drifting off, I have that log to get me back on track. It's simple and it's one of the very few things I have tried which has "stuck" in the last few years. Edit: I'm not sure I would call what I have as ADHD. I just have so much stuff going through my head that I "lose the thread" easily and forget what I was doing. I don't see how it could be any other way since I can't run multiple threads in my head. I find that the fix for me other than the log is to have the discipline to focus rather than allowing myself to go down rabbit trails for things which aren't on my list. I also find that for whatever reason, I can only do this in an office environment. I think the office creates structure which forces me to experience time differently. When I feel how scarce time is, then I'm not as likely to procrastinate.
nicbou 5y ago
This could also be useful for packing lists. I often want to make sure that I packed everything for different scenarios, but without marking items as permanently done
- Swalden123 5y ago
  That's the exact thing I use it for :)
ahmedmusaad 5y ago
The app looks great and would be a daily lifesaver for me if it wasn't for the privacy policy. The policy reads quite generic and lacks a section for GDPR compliance, which is a huge red flag for me personally.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  The privacy policy needs a lot of work which I hope to do soon. Everything in the app is through iCloud managed by Apple. I don't actually see or use any data at all, there is no sign up process, I don't capture email ect. Its akin to using Apple notes on your iPhone. If you delete your iCloud data it deletes all the data. I hope that helps in the meantime?
  - ahmedmusaad 5y ago
    Thanks for the prompt reply and yes, that helps a lot. I think if you can put the info into the privacy policy or somewhere on the website, it will make many people more comfortable using the app. Kudos on the great work.
Malp 5y ago
Pretty cool. It doesn't seem to function as intended on my iPad Air 3rd gen however- several of the buttons are unresponsive and created tasks are stuck at 0/0.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Thanks for letting me know. I have not done any testing on iPads yet. I actually didn't mean to allow the app to be installed on iPads yet as I haven't had time to work on compatibility. I'll have to check my config files. I'll support iPads correctly soon :)
jasonhansel 5y ago
As a person with ADD: this is a great idea. One thought: it would be cool if it could show the next item on your checklist on your phone's lock screen (or as a notification) to keep you focused on it.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  At the moment I haven't done anything around notifications yet which I will explore soon. I have to be careful not to assume what a persons checklist is for though, as I want to be careful that notifications are always wanted.
  - jasonhansel 5y ago
    Thanks! Either way this app is incredibly useful.
    - Swalden123 5y ago
      Thank you :)
  - BooneJS 5y ago
    iOS has a setting to indicate what level of privacy notifications need. My Lock Screen notifications just say the app, not the content.
kar5pt 5y ago
What's the difference between this and other todo list apps?
- Swalden123 5y ago
  The main thing is the lists are repeatable. After completing a list you can uncheck the whole list. It's set up for routine checklists/daily tasks that you do over again. Or packing lists you need to repeat.
- meej 5y ago
  Most todo apps don't really cater to the idea of a reusable list. Items effectively disappear once checked off, unless they're repeatable, in which case a new task is generated at the frequency you specify. There are lists of things that need doing repeatedly but not necessarily on a strict repeating schedule. Packing for travel and/or camping is a typical use case, as is a grocery list. You want a reusable prepopulated list of things you might need for any given trip.
weinzierl 5y ago
The concept looks similar to that of the various "streaks" apps. The idea of these apps is, that you create a repeating task and check it off regularly. If you do, you keep your streak, if you fail, you lose it and have to start again. The idea of just repeating tasks - minus streaks - is something I see for the first time here. I personally find the motivation to extend a streak very useful, but maybe the positive reward from ticking off a task is enough. Maybe streaks are too heavyweight, and a more minimalist approach also meets the purpose? I think I might give Spencer's app a try.
- perlgeek 5y ago
  The thing I hate about emphasizing streaks is that once you've broken one, it's easier to ignore the thing entirely than starting again.
  - weinzierl 5y ago
    That much is true, and I find they can build up a lot of psychological pressure if you take them seriously. They are certainly not suitable for everyone and in every situation.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  For me the reward of not having to drive 20 minutes home for things I've forgotten is enough ;)
squanch 5y ago
Hey Spencer, thanks for building this. I'll try it out - I identify quite a lot with your description/motivation of why you build this. I noticed one (small) problem with the website: The newsletter signup button does not work. It looks like you are missing the gatsby-plugin-mailchimp (based on the console error). Good luck to you!
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Thanks for pointing that out! An issue with my Gatsby config. I just resolved it and it should work now
jcpst 5y ago
I like the idea of this. I also using organizational tooling to deal with ADHD. The big thing that's missing from this for me is being able to make sub lists. I get it though, there's beauty in the simplicity of what you built. Here's what I'm doing. Org-mode on desktop, and Organice on my mobile. I have Organice sync to dropbox. On the desktop, I have a few tiny rclone scripts that I can call from emacs to sync to dropbox. It's probably more complex than it needs to be, but it works.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  I used to use org-mode, loved the flexibility and power of it. Which unfortunately for me was its downfall as well as I spent too much time messing around with it. For sublists, are you referring to have like a group of Checklists or do you mean an item inside a checklist having sublists?
0xdky 5y ago
On iOS, I have a repeating reminder. However, reminder notification in iOS is very non-intrusive and very easy to miss or dismiss. I have a shortcut that runs everyday at bedtime and looks for any due reminders in a specific list. If it finds any, it will enable a dedicated alarm (alarm with a specific name, time and sound I have setup but disabled by default). Alarms need more attention and action to dismiss than reminder notification and this has been working well for me so far. I am trying to use any/all building blocks that come bundled on my phone and try not to install too many apps. Hence, this is just an alternative and not an attempt to downplay or trivialize the app in topic.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Interesting idea with the auto creating of an alarm based on a reminder. That solves a different problem for me - settings reminders as alarms that will go off regardless of do not disturb being on.
- mynameisvlad 5y ago
  Can you share that shortcut? It seems very handy and I have the same problem with reminders. I'll just miss them.
renewiltord 5y ago
Thank you, Spencer. I’ve installed this and am looking forward to trying it. One thing I’ve found is that many other “repeating task” apps just create a copy of the new task each day. If I’m not diligent about it, I get four “Work out” tasks three of which have expired. I’m looking forward to seeing how your app handles this. Looks like it’s just the thing I need to manage my routine. Edit: Hmm, I need the checklist to stay checked for the day and then clear on some cadence automatically. I don’t want it immediately unchecked because that ruins my comfort at having things checked off. I don’t want it to stay checked because if I have to uncheck it myself the next day that’s not going to happen.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  So what you need is an option to have checklists that auto uncheck? I'm currently planning on having a settings that is individual to each Checklist you can set that determines this behaviour :)
  - renewiltord 5y ago
    Splendid. Since these are early days, is there a mailing list I can subscribe to for feature change logs so I know when I can start using it? Secondarily, is there a reason I can’t just buy this app? I don’t like this buy and then unlock business. The App Store manages the fact that the app is bought. This unlock thing makes it feel fragile.
    - Swalden123 5y ago
      I wanted to give people a chance to try out the app before purchasing, unfortunately there isn't a way to do both currently. There is an email list for feature updates :) You can subscribe on the website: https://checkyourlist.app/ https://checkyourlist.app/
benhalllondon 5y ago
Love the size of this app, 627.7Kb!
- Swalden123 5y ago
  That's one of the great things about being a SwiftUI app :) (and not adding a tonne of bloat)
tomr_stargazer 5y ago
I’m excited to try this! First feedback after installing: I don’t think the app integrates properly with iOS “dark mode” theme; I am finding some text entry boxes show a white text on white background, so I can’t effectively use the app yet.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Hi! Thanks for letting me know you are having a problem. I'm unable to replicate any problems with dark mode in some tests I am doing. Can you let me know what device you are using and where the text is?
  - patentatt 5y ago
    I’m having the same problem. Latest iOS, iPhone 11pro, dark mode, and white text on white background in the little white bubble right above the keyboard to enter a list name or a list item. Also, the list items themselves are white on white.
    - Swalden123 5y ago
      Thanks for the info, will have an update submitted hopefully today to resolve the issue.
    - Swalden123 5y ago
      I've been able to replicate the issue now, basically, if you have dark mode on and increased contrast on under "Accessibility" > "display and text size" you end up with white text on white backgrounds. A temporary fix would be disabling increased contrast. I'm going to be making an update now that will allow the app to support increased contrast. It will be live as soon as Apple approve it. Spencer
  - tomr_stargazer 5y ago
    My device is an iPhone 6S Plus. I’m on iOS 14.4.2. I see “white on white” text in my first text entry box to create a new checklist, and also when viewing the items inside a checklist. The items in a checklist become visible as white text upon gray background only after I mark those items “completed” (ie strikethrough). Thanks again!
throwaway413 5y ago
Really clean and simple execution, nice job! I’m working on something similar for the same reasons, a list-based personal knowledge hub if you will.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Thank you :) Good luck with your own app!
dgellow 5y ago
Awesome! For this exact purpose I’m currently using Apple’s reminder with an Apple Watch. Your app looks like a good alternative. A Windows version would also be great ;)
Waterluvian 5y ago
This is great. I think providing a help email address is generous and brave.
MeinBlutIstBlau 5y ago
Really cool and I always love these types of apps. My personal favorite is TickTick right now. It is basically cross platform on all OS's, save for Linux (but you can use a browser extension too so it works). The downside it's account based so in order to sync you must have an account. Also there are some cool features that are only accessible if you become a subscriber. On Android alone, the widgets they've made are spectacular. You can hit a checkbox and it disappears, color toward priority, and organize by date due. Mac has a similar popup as well which is very nice. Windows you need to open the app but it can also be in the overflow panel. It is the best cross platform TODO software I've found.
toss1 5y ago
Looks really nice - would definitely usean Android version Also note that it is not just ADHD that needs checklists. Anything that has more than a few steps and/or is critical, or is done when tired. One of the major steps towards making flying safe was instituting pre-flight checklists. Surgery teams now keep lists of every item used to avoid leaving something in the patient. The US Army did studies on what kind of mental facilities degrade with lack of sleep, and they found that strategic judgment was quite intact, but failures happened due to forgetting the little things, like filling canteens or fuel before going into the field - total checklist items. Heck, last night leaving the shop late, I remembered to reset the HVAC system, but forgot to grab my water container on the way home. So, if you can keep it streamlined, I think you are onto something.
charles_f 5y ago
Thanks for sharing! An alternative I have been using is Microsoft Todo with recurring tasks and subtasks. I create tasks like "prepare weekday" or "prepare camping trip", and subtasks like "prepare kid's lunchbox, prepare kids clothes, etc". Everytime I tick the main task it resets the list and subtasks status
mattmireles 5y ago
I am a single parent and I too have ADHD & found myself struggling with the same things, so I created a series of "morning routine" Alexa reminders for myself AND my son. - wake up (dad + kid) - make breakfast (dad) - eat breakfast (kid) - get dressed (kid) - make lunch (dad) - get in car (both) <––plays "Here We Go Again" by OK Go The results have been AMAZING!!! Voice reminders FTW. Before this, I was constantly running late. Constantly yelling at him to hurry. Constantly forgetting to make him lunch. It affected his school day negatively. The principal would call me in to tell us about behavior issues. After implementing this Alexa-based voice reminder system, I started getting my son to school on time everyday with everything he needed. Actually, we had time to spare, so I would park and walk him to class. His school behavior improved dramatically, as did our relationship. Mornings were SO MUCH EASIER because instead of me having to remember and remind him, Alexa was reminding BOTH of us! I also created an evening routine that caused major improvements in the regularity of his bedtime & bath. Highly recommend both! You should look into doing something similar.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  I don't use too much voice apps much. Are you basically setting a reminder and at the time it just announces the reminder? In which case I can definitely see how that could help! That's awesome you've found ways to cope as a single parent with ADHD, that must be a serious challenge.
verytrivial 5y ago
This app is embarrassing similar to how I use Google Keep.
- checkuncheck 5y ago
  Isn't this just the "Uncheck all items" feature from Google Keep?
desmondw 5y ago
I love the idea of this and echo the comments on good UI, but would need to see more convenience for it to be worth switching from my existing system. I currently use Workflowy for this, which has web/native desktop apps for easily typing out lists that can be completed on the phone like this, crossing them off in the same way. Workflowy don't have an apple watch app yet though so you have an advantage there. Also I would change the "crossing out" action to work on clicking anywhere on the row, whereas now it only works on the radio button or label. That's a big pain for right handed people with one-word items.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  I agree on needing the whole row tappable, its been recurring feedback I've been getting so I will get that happening! I used to use workflowly, it was great :) I never could quite stick with it for some reason however no idea why. Quick question, in workflowly can you uncheck the whole list easily?
Rainymood 5y ago
What is the reason it requires iOS 14.1 or later? I run an old version for iOS and would love this. I make repeatable checklists for everything and I feel like this could really help me out.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  It's basically the overhead of testing as an indie developer as well as using SwiftUI which is missing a lot of important functionality pre iOS 14. Supporting iOS 13 would unfortunately triple the amount of code I need to write.
TameAntelope 5y ago
Kind of silly, but the association to ADHD makes me feel like I need to have the disorder to make the most use of this app. Maybe pull back a bit on that part of the marketing? People who have ADHD know how valuable checklist apps are, just seems like you're needlessly narrowing your target market.
- SamuelAdams 5y ago
  Yes, there’s a big marker for good checklists. My wife is a nurse and they need to use checklists when working g with patients in the OR and PACU, and since she uses them so much at work she now makes lists for everything at home. Something like this would be a good idea.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande is a book written by a doctor on the use of Checklists that actually got me using them in the first place :)
- Swalden123 5y ago
  I know what you mean. Pretty much any ADHD tool is actually going to be valuable to everyone. From a marketing point of view, I had to start somewhere with an audience I knew to get my message across :)
Flemlord 5y ago
I love the concept; I've already created some lists of things I'd be embarrassed to show non-ADHD folks. Feature request: Rename existing lists and list items.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  You can rename existing lists by tapping edit on the top left and then tapping the name :) Renaming items is coming soon.
mdrachuk 5y ago
I had a lot of fun making a less generalized version of that: https://apps.apple.com/ua/app/yosanity-morning/id1500266556 https://apps.apple.com/ua/app/yosanity-morning/id1500266556 An app just for morning routines, which is important to structure the whole day. The app is totally free now, it works via iCloud, so I don’t have any servers to maintain.
zeristor 5y ago
How about tying this in with the HealthKit to log when you've taken the medication. The thing is after a while I get fed up of my live being lived through ticking off boxes in a checklist, its OK for things on a weekly and above basis, but I don't like it for a daily reminder.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Great idea re the HealthKit integration, something I will consider.
nxrabl 5y ago
Very nice app! I had just started working on my own implementation of a similar app, so I'm glad I don't have to do that anymore! One thing I notice is that when using VoiceOver to read out elements on the screen, there don't seem to be any labels on routine items, so a screen reader user wouldn't know what was on their checklist, and the labels on the big blue + icons in the lower right don't say what they do.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Accessibility is something I am currently working on. Should be 100% soon :)
aeonflux 5y ago
Not sure if thats the place to report bugs, but the app is unusable for me - the lists shows white text on white background. All input boxes do not show the text as well (due to same fg/bg colors). Is it because I use dark mode?
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Hi :) I had quite a few reports of this issue. Dark mode on it's own works, however if you also have Increase Contrast (Under accessibility > Display & Text size on as well it causes this issue. I just submitted an update to Apple 30 minutes ago that will fix this issue once they approve it (Usually within around 12 hours or so) :)
arvigeus 5y ago
Is there a way to make tasks only for a certain day?
vassilevsky 5y ago
Man, I've been wanting for this for YEARS!

282 points by Swalden123 5y ago

Hi Guys, I'm Spencer and recently built CheckYourList to help with my ADHD. The app lets you create repeatable checklists. It's great for packing lists, daily routines, cleaning lists and things that you need to take with you constantly. The reason it is different to apps like Apple reminders is once you complete a checklist you can uncheck every item so it is ready to go next time. I built the app because I found myself forgetting things more and more after the birth of my son. For example, dropping him at daycare and then going to the gym, required so many things. I felt overwhelmed and would take ages to leave the house as I searched around looking for what I needed. I wanted a solution, I built this app to help. The app is available on iOS and WatchOS and syncs between the two with all the data in iCloud (I never see the data). I'm constantly iterating the app, I am currently working on the ability to keep a history of checklists you have completed so you can check you did things (like taking medication every morning). If anyone has any ideas for features they would like to see let me know :) I'm mainly a web developer, I've put a lot of work in my spare time over the last six months learning iOS development and swift. The app is built in SwiftUI, which coming from javascript the syntax was quite comfortable, although the language does have some very big differences. The most difficult thing was learning where SwiftUI would not work and how to drop down to UIKit where needed. Things like how to focus a text field programmatically are missing in SwiftUI (coming in iOS15). A big thank you to Paul Hudson at hackingwithswift.com as without his HWS+ videos I don't think I could have built a production ready app as most tutorials don't cover production scenarios and apples documentation is truely terrible. His information on core data was invaluable. You can see the app in the app store here: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/checkyourlist/id1571623264 https://apps.apple.com/au/app/checkyourlist/id1571623264

playpause 5y ago
This looks amazing. I spent a lot of time searching for something exactly like this earlier this year, but eventually gave up. I set up a Shortcuts automation to do something similar: I have a few lists in Apple Reminders that I use as repeatable checklists, and every night the shortcut runs and just unchecks all the items. It works, and has really improved my life, but it has a few very annoying limitations. So I’m really looking forward to trying this, thanks. Edit: tried it, it looks great, only one issue for me is the dialog that automatically pops up when the last item is checked. If you could add a way to completely turn that feature off then I would pay for this in a heartbeat. It might seem a tiny thing but that automatic popup would make it impossible for me to use this app, with my kind of ADHD. Also, there doesn’t seem to be a way to edit an item once created. Otherwise it looks great.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Sounds like you went through the same process I did as well :) I was surprised to find a lack of apps that have repeatable checklists. I did something similar to you with google forms. I had a shortcut set up to launch a google form to go through. Smart idea with using a shortcut the uncheck the items! Let me know how you go with the app :) Especially if it is missing anything you think you need.
  - bobmaxup 5y ago
    There are a number of habit apps I have seen that sort of fall into this niche. Some have checklists.
    - playpause 5y ago
      Please give any example! I have never found anything that specifically does repeatable checklists.
      - nokya 5y ago
        Same here. Been searching for such apps for years (Android phone) and still haven't found one app designed for people who use repeatable lists. All the "best" apps I have tested are a complete mess when it comes to simply restarting a checklist you've completed already.
      - jamessb 5y ago
        Checkli: https://www.checkli.com/ https://www.checkli.com/ Process Street: https://www.process.st/ https://www.process.st/ https://checklist.com/ https://checklist.com/ also lets you create "checklist templates"
        vassilevsky 5y ago
        I've been using Process Street for a year or so. It's not exactly simple.
        5y ago
AnonHP 5y ago
I have feedback on the name of the app. Since it’s spelled without spaces, as “CheckYourList”, it doesn’t show up in search results when searching for “check your list”.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Great feedback! I'll add check your list to the apps keywords in the next update so it comes up in the future.
rvanlaar 5y ago
Hey, great that you were able to finish it. Congrats. I found the power checklists bring a couple years ago. I've primarily used process street for it. Works greats for me.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  I don't think I ever got around to trying process street, their focus on teams put me off a bit. Finishing it was quite the challenge :P I've spent the last 10 years getting a lot of different projects to 90% done and then moving on.
jonpurdy 5y ago
Typing one-handed since I have my 4-day-old newborn napping in my arms now as her mom gets some rest. Even before having her, I have found it difficult to find a balance between high level to do lists (missing details), and more detailed checklists (that are harder to manage). Keeping the simple repeatable stuff separate should make it easier to offload that cognition from my brain so I can focus on the stuff I NEED to think about. Looking forward to trying it out!
- Swalden123 5y ago
  A lot of this app was written with one hand while holding a baby :) I never realised how overwhelmed I was by my todo app until I pulled my checklists into this app, I've found it definitely helped. Let me know how you go :)
  - jonpurdy 5y ago
    Quick feedback: this is an interface paradigm that I haven't thought of before (and haven't stumbled upon, if it exists in other apps). Immediately recognized how useful it is and I've already set up a few checklists. And the UI itself is simple and to the point without any BS (probably because you're independent and don't need to hit OKRs), and matches iOS so it was easy to jump into and get started. Thanks and please continue development!
    - Swalden123 5y ago
      Thanks for your kind words :)
  - j45 5y ago
    I too have realized the value of Apple Watch and voice interfaces (Siri, Google, Alexa) when your hands are constantly full. I remember seeing someone had created a way to code using voice commands in dragon dictate and I’m wondering if it could be valuable to new parents
jhunter1016 5y ago
I just recently released my first iOS app written in SwiftUI and HackingWithSwift was such a lifesaver. Glad to see others find it as valuable as I did. Great job on this app. My son has ADHD and struggles mightily with repeating tasks each day. Downloading it on his iPad to see if it helps!
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Its definitely the best resource out there! Just a heads up re iPad, some people have been reporting issues with the iPad version. I'll be working on the iPad compatibility soon to ensure it all works.
nojs 5y ago
I love the simplicity and clean UI. Don’t add too many features! This is the problem with a lot of todo list type apps.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Thank you :) I'm going to keep it as simple as I can
omarhaneef 5y ago
Echo what others say: nice interface, and you found something useful in a very crowded space. The only feature I would add is: shareable, community lists. I’d like to know the standard list everyone else has voted on to do taxes, register a car in a state, or whatever else. (Diligence a company?) I feel like I’m missing out on the wisdom of others in how to do some things.
- j45 5y ago
  Shared lists with your significant other, roommate, etc, would be very helpful. Groups in general (work, family, volunteer responsibilities) would be super useful.
  - city41 5y ago
    Not to discount this app, but Trello is pretty nice here. My wife and I have several boards shared between us. It's especially cool to be at home and add a few things to the grocery board, then the other checks their phone and grabs the things while they were already out.
    - j45 5y ago
      Trello could work nice, I’ll revisit it, thanks! Reminders and minimizing clicks is key for me.
jw1224 5y ago
Great job! Funnily enough, I’ve been thinking about building something exactly like this for months… But naturally, with ADHD, I kept putting it off :-) Repeating checklists are so useful, and I’m surprised other task managers haven’t really seemed to implement them as fully as you have. Well done!
- thanksforfish 5y ago
  I recently changed my opinion on todo list type projects. I previously thought it was a crowded place and a solved problem, not worth building yet another. But a todo list is such a powerful tool and has so many different use cases that each new variation can focus on a different niche and brings new value. Great work!
pjerem 5y ago
Nice job ! It would be cool to have presets / shared checklists. I found that items are difficult to check using only right hand. Maybe allow to check from the entire item and make them bigger ? However, I found it to be simple & nice.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Sharing checklists/presets/a checklist community is definitely something I am considering :) I'm going to make an update soon to make the entire item tappable.
Rd6n6 5y ago
> the developer does not collect any data If true, that is very refreshing and nice to read
- tannedNerd 5y ago
  This is not the best take on this, as that means no crash reporting and no metrics. I think people need to realize 99% of indie devs aren’t doing anything nefarious with anonymous crash and client user data and just want to deliver a better product to you, their users.
  - deleted 5y ago
    [deleted]
pedrovhb 5y ago
That's amazing! I had the exact same idea, and just last week or so started picking up Kotlin to implement it. I've been using Tasker with AutoWear for a makeshift version of this and it _works_, but is obviously not ideal (bits of code everywhere, bad UI). Another thing I thought of was to keep track of the time spent in each subtask and have the watch vibrate to remind you to focus if you take more than a couple of standard deviations to finish a given step. I'd love to use yours. Unfortunately as I'm an Android guy I'll have to build it myself still :)
throwawaysea 5y ago
Hi - can you say more about how you’re keeping data secure and encrypted and such? Checklists can include some very personal information so I think having a strong security and privacy practice can help with adoption since it is hard to trust a random new app versus built in apps.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Hi! Basically the data is stored in iCloud in the same way your Apple reminders and notes are. I never have access to the data as it is stored on your local device and Apples server. So in terms of security and privacy, your essentially trusting Apple itself.
skittleson 5y ago
My name is also Spencer and have been diagnosed the same . This is a great niche app. Any app I've used for todo lists couldn't get this right so I'm glad to see it. The one feedback is a configurable task max limit. My time is very valuable so I have to limit what todo to the most valuable tasks.
meej 5y ago
This is excellent work! I've currently got all my reusable checklists in Remember the Milk, but they get lost in there among all my other hundreds of todos. I'm always surprised how few todo apps seem to target reusable lists, it's definitely an overlooked niche. Back in the Palm Pilot and early iOS days, SplashData's SplashShopper app was fantastic at this, but they don't seem to be able to keep up with modern application development update/release cycles and it's slowly become unusable over time. Anyway- you asked for feature requests. 1. Consider making lists organizable in some way -- make them nestable or categorizeable. Like, my travel checklist in RTM consists of multiple sub-lists: clothing, electronics, toiletries, medical, etc. Splash Shopper does this with a sortable category on each item. 2. Consider adding prepopulated lists, particularly for things like groceries where the list can have lots of common items, will likely be long, and building it from scratch may feel daunting. 3. Consider having separate views for all the items on the list vs. everything that currently needs checking off. Like, when I travel or go grocery shopping, I may not need everything on the whole list. Let me build a list from a bank of all the items in the list rather than forcing me to uncheck everything in order to reuse the list and then prune the stuff that I don't need on the list for this particular trip.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  I have that same problem with todo apps where things get lost in them. Definitely want to add categorising lists soon. For pre-populated lists I was planning on some sort of community/sharing system in the ftureu. For your 3. would categorising/nesting lists cover that?
charwalker 5y ago
Any push for an Android version?
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Not currently in the works. Once I'm happy the iOS app is bug free and where I want it to be I will potential build one.
chezuma 5y ago
Hey there Spencer, This was a really nice looking app and hit the spot for my ADHD brain! Nice with no recurring payment! Consider me a customer. -chezuma
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Glad it hit the spot for you :)

laurieg 5y ago

I really like checklists. If you need convincing, read Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande. They let you focus on the decisions rather than remembering the steps.

Swalden123 5y ago
That book was one of the things that started me looking for an app to let me make recurring checklists :) I still to do this day can't believe I finished a book on checklists!

shreyshnaccount 5y ago

nice looking app, nice premise, too bad it's not on Android tho, but I like it a lot and wish you well ♥

Swalden123 5y ago
Thank you :)

mysterydip 5y ago

My phone currently has 19 alarms on it with things like "feed cat", "put dishes away", and "give child medicine". The difficult part is that I don't always get to do the thing when I have the alarm set: Kids get up later or eat lunch earlier, we are out running an errand, etc. I'll give this a try, thanks!

Swalden123 5y ago
I've often done the same thing! My phone is often on do not disturb as well, so alarms are the only way to get on time reminders. My apple watch has helped as I can hit snooze quickly and a lot more easily. Todo apps tend to get filled with so many things, so I've been using CheckYourList to keep track of things like you mentioned to keep them away from my overflowing todo inbox.

austincheney 5y ago

Serious question. I have a foster child with severe ADHD. How can I teach them to shut the hell up? It sometimes take 20 or 30 words to say something that can be said in maybe 4 words. When they ask questions they don’t wait for answers before saying other things. It’s like talking as an exercise to continuously hear your own voice like political talk radio but even less intelligible and all over the place. A continuous stream of talking long past having anything worth talking about that people don’t want to listen to. Their communications and social skills are severely affected and under developed and immature because they won’t shut the hell up. They can’t listen because either they are talking or they are deliberately pausing the talking to pretend to listen only to be thinking about other bullshit they wish was spoken.

arthurcolle 5y ago
Vyvanse
jsbdk 5y ago
Why are you taking care of a children that's so annoying? It's like having a dog that won't stop chewing your things. At some point you have to say "you've taken enough of my sanity away". You have to get rid of toxic people.
- tjpnz 5y ago
  A child is not a dog nor is it a "toxic person" you can simply get rid of.
  - jsbdk 5y ago
    It is when it is not really your child.
hrh 5y ago
I don't mean to ask the obvious question, but have you taken them to the doctor? It's very well possible that they literally can't "shut the hell up". You are frustrated, but they need your empathy. If you have not taken them to a doctor (psychiatrist more specifically) please seriously consider doing so. My 14 year old adopted brother is going through similar issues and is embarrassed and afraid to take the steps he needs to take. I have to explain to him that if I could have this helped when I was 14 instead of 34...I sure as hell would have.

adge 5y ago

"I felt overwhelmed and would take ages to leave the house" I identify with this so strongly and my friends and family have commented on it as well... Unfortunately I don't have an iPhone. I would love to try it if you ported it to a web app though!

Swalden123 5y ago
A web app is definitely a possibility as it is something I can build, where as Android I'm starting from scratch.
- kecupochren 5y ago
  Have you considered a PWA?
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Yes. The reason I built an iOS app was it is the simplest way to get an app live, if the app gains traction I can definitely expand its availability in the future. Problem with web apps is I often end up with decision fatigue over picking platforms ect. A native app I could just jump in and build.
    - rovr138 5y ago
      First thing I did was check the privacy policy and then come here to talk about it. Saw your other comment regarding the privacy policy needing a lot of rework and that’s it’s all local and I went back to download it. I was fine trusting that comment. — Personally, I would not use this app if it needed an account or server. I’m sorry. I don’t know you and the privacy policy things are too broad. I’m very conflicted now. I don’t want all my data to sync some random server on an update because it went web. Will this happen? Will you make it optional? Third party trackers? I can accept crashes of course, but can you confirm that none of the data or what was being input is sent? The reason I have iCloud is to sync apps so the data is available between all my devices. Thankfully I don’t need medicines or a care routine, huh for someone that does, the personal data they’d be leaking is huge. If something happened to your servers, this can also liability issues too. . I’m sorry to bring this up and I get it’s a lot, but I really liked the idea and think it’d be helpful. I’m just conflicted now between this, the privacy policy and the comment you made where it’s all local.

hrh 5y ago

...is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, bouts of excessive energy, hyper-fixation, and impulsivity, which are otherwise not appropriate for a person's age.[1][2][3][4] Some individuals with ADHD also display difficulty regulating emotions or problems with executive function.[1][5][6][7] For a diagnosis, the symptoms have to be present for more than six months, and cause problems in at least two settings (such as school, home, work, or recreational activities).[1][2] In children, problems paying attention may result in poor school performance.[8] Additionally, it is associated with other mental disorders and substance use disorders.[9] Although it causes impairment, particularly in modern society, many people with ADHD can have sustained attention for tasks they find interesting or rewarding (known as hyperfocus).[10][11] People with ADHD of all ages are more likely to have problems with social skills, such as social interaction and forming and maintaining friendships. This is true for all presentations. About half of children and adolescents with ADHD experience social rejection by their peers compared to 10–15% of non-ADHD children and adolescents. People with attention deficits are prone to having difficulty processing verbal and nonverbal language which can negatively affect social interaction. They also may drift off during conversations, miss social cues, and have trouble learning social skills.[54] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivit...

bittermandel 5y ago

This is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you so much. I've recently discovered together with my psychologist that I am "suffering" of something along the lines of ADHD. This includes selective memory (only remember what I focus on remembering), missing social cues and feeling overwhelmed if I have to suddenly do something I did not expect. I've just started my journey in figuring out how I can live my best life, so I hope this way of creating repeatable checklists can help me on the way.

deleted 5y ago
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Bellamy 5y ago
I use Habinator. It's not just a checklist but works as one as well.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  Habit apps are definitely the closest thing I've found.
deregulateMed 5y ago
I find these tools work great until you "cave" and ignore it. Like I had a reminder app, worked great for 2 weeks until I ignored it one day. Then it became easy to ignore. I find this true for every brain hack I've found. It works until my brain realizes it doesn't need to listen. I don't want to use drugs for ADHD. Especially after seeing my uncle ruin his life over the course of a decade. Productive, excelled, drug addiction, stagnation, collapse. I'm glad he drunkenly told me to stay off it.
- seunosewa 5y ago
  I don't think you should take medical advice from an alcoholic. It's unlikely that your uncle's life was ruined by ADHD medication. I bet alcohol and other recreational drugs had more to do with it.

flemhans 5y ago

A bit of a copy of http://doableapps.com http://doableapps.com isn't it?

Swalden123 5y ago
Haven't seen it before, but it is quite different I think. CheckYourList basically lets you create a list with multiple items in it, which when complete can be reset, ready to go through again. doableapps is more fo a todo app if i'm not wrong?

alasano 5y ago

Yes but do you have anything to remind me to check the checklist app? Even better, some sort of checklist app aggregator app which goes through my various checklist apps that I forget to check? The same thing for note taking apps would be great too. Jokes aside, congrats on launching your app

Swalden123 5y ago
If you put the app on your home screen it does say "CheckYourList", that might help :P
tedmiston 5y ago
If you truly want something naggingly persistent, the Due app [1][2] is very full-featured and has an "auto snooze" feature that allows you to have a reminder send you a push notification e.g., every 10 minutes, indefinitely. [1]: https://www.dueapp.com/ https://www.dueapp.com/ [2]: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/due/id390017969 https://apps.apple.com/us/app/due/id390017969

pgn674 5y ago

Aww man, I've got an Android phone. Anyone know of any alternatives for Android? I'm currently using TickTick, but daily or activity based repeatable tasks isn't its focus. I was only able to get what I need because of its decently powerful filter.

jvns 5y ago
Google Keep lets you make checklists and it's easy to uncheck everything on the list. I use it to make "leaving the house" lists etc.
- nokya 5y ago
  I tried Keep a few years ago and I'm pretty sure this option wasn't there and needed to uncheck all items. I gave up at the time. I just reopened it after reading your comments and found this "uncheck all boxes". It looks like you improved my life, thanks :)
tjpnz 5y ago
Samsung Notes is perfect for this assuming you use a Samsung device.
Swalden123 5y ago
Hopefully I'll make an Android version in the future, or a web app. I used TickTick alot for this previously, I used to check the items complete then when I wanted to go through the list again I would just uncheck them and then the next day it would be checking them if that makes sense.
- nokya 5y ago
  Same experience. I was quite surprised when I discovered the app to be so limited for users who operate in repeatable "mode". It's like these creators all read the checklist manifesto and didn't understand the core concept.
  - Swalden123 5y ago

high_byte 5y ago

rarely do I want an app but please make an Android version

Swalden123 5y ago
I hope too in the future :)

gexla 5y ago

Regularly for Android seems similar. I find that having something on my screen while working is also useful. What I'm doing now is using something with a simple UI (like Notepad on Windows) and Power Tools to create a dedicated spot on my desktop space. Whenever something comes to mind, I jot it down. Most important is that I write out the next thing that I want to be working on and then indented is the next step. I might create a section for each project where I'll place further steps which I thought of which I haven't arrived to yet. I still add my current items to the "Stream" section. Whenever I find myself drifting off, I have that log to get me back on track. It's simple and it's one of the very few things I have tried which has "stuck" in the last few years. Edit: I'm not sure I would call what I have as ADHD. I just have so much stuff going through my head that I "lose the thread" easily and forget what I was doing. I don't see how it could be any other way since I can't run multiple threads in my head. I find that the fix for me other than the log is to have the discipline to focus rather than allowing myself to go down rabbit trails for things which aren't on my list. I also find that for whatever reason, I can only do this in an office environment. I think the office creates structure which forces me to experience time differently. When I feel how scarce time is, then I'm not as likely to procrastinate.

nicbou 5y ago

This could also be useful for packing lists. I often want to make sure that I packed everything for different scenarios, but without marking items as permanently done

Swalden123 5y ago
That's the exact thing I use it for :)

ahmedmusaad 5y ago

The app looks great and would be a daily lifesaver for me if it wasn't for the privacy policy. The policy reads quite generic and lacks a section for GDPR compliance, which is a huge red flag for me personally.

Swalden123 5y ago
The privacy policy needs a lot of work which I hope to do soon. Everything in the app is through iCloud managed by Apple. I don't actually see or use any data at all, there is no sign up process, I don't capture email ect. Its akin to using Apple notes on your iPhone. If you delete your iCloud data it deletes all the data. I hope that helps in the meantime?
- ahmedmusaad 5y ago
  Thanks for the prompt reply and yes, that helps a lot. I think if you can put the info into the privacy policy or somewhere on the website, it will make many people more comfortable using the app. Kudos on the great work.

Malp 5y ago

Pretty cool. It doesn't seem to function as intended on my iPad Air 3rd gen however- several of the buttons are unresponsive and created tasks are stuck at 0/0.

Swalden123 5y ago
Thanks for letting me know. I have not done any testing on iPads yet. I actually didn't mean to allow the app to be installed on iPads yet as I haven't had time to work on compatibility. I'll have to check my config files. I'll support iPads correctly soon :)

jasonhansel 5y ago

As a person with ADD: this is a great idea. One thought: it would be cool if it could show the next item on your checklist on your phone's lock screen (or as a notification) to keep you focused on it.

Swalden123 5y ago
At the moment I haven't done anything around notifications yet which I will explore soon. I have to be careful not to assume what a persons checklist is for though, as I want to be careful that notifications are always wanted.
- jasonhansel 5y ago
  Thanks! Either way this app is incredibly useful.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Thank you :)
- BooneJS 5y ago
  iOS has a setting to indicate what level of privacy notifications need. My Lock Screen notifications just say the app, not the content.

kar5pt 5y ago

What's the difference between this and other todo list apps?

Swalden123 5y ago
The main thing is the lists are repeatable. After completing a list you can uncheck the whole list. It's set up for routine checklists/daily tasks that you do over again. Or packing lists you need to repeat.
meej 5y ago
Most todo apps don't really cater to the idea of a reusable list. Items effectively disappear once checked off, unless they're repeatable, in which case a new task is generated at the frequency you specify. There are lists of things that need doing repeatedly but not necessarily on a strict repeating schedule. Packing for travel and/or camping is a typical use case, as is a grocery list. You want a reusable prepopulated list of things you might need for any given trip.

weinzierl 5y ago

The concept looks similar to that of the various "streaks" apps. The idea of these apps is, that you create a repeating task and check it off regularly. If you do, you keep your streak, if you fail, you lose it and have to start again. The idea of just repeating tasks - minus streaks - is something I see for the first time here. I personally find the motivation to extend a streak very useful, but maybe the positive reward from ticking off a task is enough. Maybe streaks are too heavyweight, and a more minimalist approach also meets the purpose? I think I might give Spencer's app a try.

perlgeek 5y ago
The thing I hate about emphasizing streaks is that once you've broken one, it's easier to ignore the thing entirely than starting again.
- weinzierl 5y ago
  That much is true, and I find they can build up a lot of psychological pressure if you take them seriously. They are certainly not suitable for everyone and in every situation.
Swalden123 5y ago
For me the reward of not having to drive 20 minutes home for things I've forgotten is enough ;)

squanch 5y ago

Hey Spencer, thanks for building this. I'll try it out - I identify quite a lot with your description/motivation of why you build this. I noticed one (small) problem with the website: The newsletter signup button does not work. It looks like you are missing the gatsby-plugin-mailchimp (based on the console error). Good luck to you!

Swalden123 5y ago
Thanks for pointing that out! An issue with my Gatsby config. I just resolved it and it should work now

jcpst 5y ago

I like the idea of this. I also using organizational tooling to deal with ADHD. The big thing that's missing from this for me is being able to make sub lists. I get it though, there's beauty in the simplicity of what you built. Here's what I'm doing. Org-mode on desktop, and Organice on my mobile. I have Organice sync to dropbox. On the desktop, I have a few tiny rclone scripts that I can call from emacs to sync to dropbox. It's probably more complex than it needs to be, but it works.

Swalden123 5y ago
I used to use org-mode, loved the flexibility and power of it. Which unfortunately for me was its downfall as well as I spent too much time messing around with it. For sublists, are you referring to have like a group of Checklists or do you mean an item inside a checklist having sublists?

0xdky 5y ago

On iOS, I have a repeating reminder. However, reminder notification in iOS is very non-intrusive and very easy to miss or dismiss. I have a shortcut that runs everyday at bedtime and looks for any due reminders in a specific list. If it finds any, it will enable a dedicated alarm (alarm with a specific name, time and sound I have setup but disabled by default). Alarms need more attention and action to dismiss than reminder notification and this has been working well for me so far. I am trying to use any/all building blocks that come bundled on my phone and try not to install too many apps. Hence, this is just an alternative and not an attempt to downplay or trivialize the app in topic.

Swalden123 5y ago
Interesting idea with the auto creating of an alarm based on a reminder. That solves a different problem for me - settings reminders as alarms that will go off regardless of do not disturb being on.
mynameisvlad 5y ago
Can you share that shortcut? It seems very handy and I have the same problem with reminders. I'll just miss them.

renewiltord 5y ago

Thank you, Spencer. I’ve installed this and am looking forward to trying it. One thing I’ve found is that many other “repeating task” apps just create a copy of the new task each day. If I’m not diligent about it, I get four “Work out” tasks three of which have expired. I’m looking forward to seeing how your app handles this. Looks like it’s just the thing I need to manage my routine. Edit: Hmm, I need the checklist to stay checked for the day and then clear on some cadence automatically. I don’t want it immediately unchecked because that ruins my comfort at having things checked off. I don’t want it to stay checked because if I have to uncheck it myself the next day that’s not going to happen.

Swalden123 5y ago
So what you need is an option to have checklists that auto uncheck? I'm currently planning on having a settings that is individual to each Checklist you can set that determines this behaviour :)
- renewiltord 5y ago
  Splendid. Since these are early days, is there a mailing list I can subscribe to for feature change logs so I know when I can start using it? Secondarily, is there a reason I can’t just buy this app? I don’t like this buy and then unlock business. The App Store manages the fact that the app is bought. This unlock thing makes it feel fragile.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    I wanted to give people a chance to try out the app before purchasing, unfortunately there isn't a way to do both currently. There is an email list for feature updates :) You can subscribe on the website: https://checkyourlist.app/ https://checkyourlist.app/

benhalllondon 5y ago

Love the size of this app, 627.7Kb!

Swalden123 5y ago
That's one of the great things about being a SwiftUI app :) (and not adding a tonne of bloat)

tomr_stargazer 5y ago

I’m excited to try this! First feedback after installing: I don’t think the app integrates properly with iOS “dark mode” theme; I am finding some text entry boxes show a white text on white background, so I can’t effectively use the app yet.

Swalden123 5y ago
Hi! Thanks for letting me know you are having a problem. I'm unable to replicate any problems with dark mode in some tests I am doing. Can you let me know what device you are using and where the text is?
- patentatt 5y ago
  I’m having the same problem. Latest iOS, iPhone 11pro, dark mode, and white text on white background in the little white bubble right above the keyboard to enter a list name or a list item. Also, the list items themselves are white on white.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    Thanks for the info, will have an update submitted hopefully today to resolve the issue.
  - Swalden123 5y ago
    I've been able to replicate the issue now, basically, if you have dark mode on and increased contrast on under "Accessibility" > "display and text size" you end up with white text on white backgrounds. A temporary fix would be disabling increased contrast. I'm going to be making an update now that will allow the app to support increased contrast. It will be live as soon as Apple approve it. Spencer
- tomr_stargazer 5y ago
  My device is an iPhone 6S Plus. I’m on iOS 14.4.2. I see “white on white” text in my first text entry box to create a new checklist, and also when viewing the items inside a checklist. The items in a checklist become visible as white text upon gray background only after I mark those items “completed” (ie strikethrough). Thanks again!

throwaway413 5y ago

Really clean and simple execution, nice job! I’m working on something similar for the same reasons, a list-based personal knowledge hub if you will.

Swalden123 5y ago
Thank you :) Good luck with your own app!

dgellow 5y ago

Awesome! For this exact purpose I’m currently using Apple’s reminder with an Apple Watch. Your app looks like a good alternative. A Windows version would also be great ;)

Waterluvian 5y ago

This is great. I think providing a help email address is generous and brave.

MeinBlutIstBlau 5y ago

Really cool and I always love these types of apps. My personal favorite is TickTick right now. It is basically cross platform on all OS's, save for Linux (but you can use a browser extension too so it works). The downside it's account based so in order to sync you must have an account. Also there are some cool features that are only accessible if you become a subscriber. On Android alone, the widgets they've made are spectacular. You can hit a checkbox and it disappears, color toward priority, and organize by date due. Mac has a similar popup as well which is very nice. Windows you need to open the app but it can also be in the overflow panel. It is the best cross platform TODO software I've found.

toss1 5y ago

Looks really nice - would definitely usean Android version Also note that it is not just ADHD that needs checklists. Anything that has more than a few steps and/or is critical, or is done when tired. One of the major steps towards making flying safe was instituting pre-flight checklists. Surgery teams now keep lists of every item used to avoid leaving something in the patient. The US Army did studies on what kind of mental facilities degrade with lack of sleep, and they found that strategic judgment was quite intact, but failures happened due to forgetting the little things, like filling canteens or fuel before going into the field - total checklist items. Heck, last night leaving the shop late, I remembered to reset the HVAC system, but forgot to grab my water container on the way home. So, if you can keep it streamlined, I think you are onto something.

charles_f 5y ago

Thanks for sharing! An alternative I have been using is Microsoft Todo with recurring tasks and subtasks. I create tasks like "prepare weekday" or "prepare camping trip", and subtasks like "prepare kid's lunchbox, prepare kids clothes, etc". Everytime I tick the main task it resets the list and subtasks status

mattmireles 5y ago

I am a single parent and I too have ADHD & found myself struggling with the same things, so I created a series of "morning routine" Alexa reminders for myself AND my son. - wake up (dad + kid) - make breakfast (dad) - eat breakfast (kid) - get dressed (kid) - make lunch (dad) - get in car (both) <––plays "Here We Go Again" by OK Go The results have been AMAZING!!! Voice reminders FTW. Before this, I was constantly running late. Constantly yelling at him to hurry. Constantly forgetting to make him lunch. It affected his school day negatively. The principal would call me in to tell us about behavior issues. After implementing this Alexa-based voice reminder system, I started getting my son to school on time everyday with everything he needed. Actually, we had time to spare, so I would park and walk him to class. His school behavior improved dramatically, as did our relationship. Mornings were SO MUCH EASIER because instead of me having to remember and remind him, Alexa was reminding BOTH of us! I also created an evening routine that caused major improvements in the regularity of his bedtime & bath. Highly recommend both! You should look into doing something similar.

Swalden123 5y ago
I don't use too much voice apps much. Are you basically setting a reminder and at the time it just announces the reminder? In which case I can definitely see how that could help! That's awesome you've found ways to cope as a single parent with ADHD, that must be a serious challenge.

verytrivial 5y ago

This app is embarrassing similar to how I use Google Keep.

checkuncheck 5y ago
Isn't this just the "Uncheck all items" feature from Google Keep?

desmondw 5y ago

I love the idea of this and echo the comments on good UI, but would need to see more convenience for it to be worth switching from my existing system. I currently use Workflowy for this, which has web/native desktop apps for easily typing out lists that can be completed on the phone like this, crossing them off in the same way. Workflowy don't have an apple watch app yet though so you have an advantage there. Also I would change the "crossing out" action to work on clicking anywhere on the row, whereas now it only works on the radio button or label. That's a big pain for right handed people with one-word items.

Swalden123 5y ago
I agree on needing the whole row tappable, its been recurring feedback I've been getting so I will get that happening! I used to use workflowly, it was great :) I never could quite stick with it for some reason however no idea why. Quick question, in workflowly can you uncheck the whole list easily?

Rainymood 5y ago

What is the reason it requires iOS 14.1 or later? I run an old version for iOS and would love this. I make repeatable checklists for everything and I feel like this could really help me out.

Swalden123 5y ago
It's basically the overhead of testing as an indie developer as well as using SwiftUI which is missing a lot of important functionality pre iOS 14. Supporting iOS 13 would unfortunately triple the amount of code I need to write.

TameAntelope 5y ago

Kind of silly, but the association to ADHD makes me feel like I need to have the disorder to make the most use of this app. Maybe pull back a bit on that part of the marketing? People who have ADHD know how valuable checklist apps are, just seems like you're needlessly narrowing your target market.

SamuelAdams 5y ago
Yes, there’s a big marker for good checklists. My wife is a nurse and they need to use checklists when working g with patients in the OR and PACU, and since she uses them so much at work she now makes lists for everything at home. Something like this would be a good idea.
- Swalden123 5y ago
  The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande is a book written by a doctor on the use of Checklists that actually got me using them in the first place :)
Swalden123 5y ago
I know what you mean. Pretty much any ADHD tool is actually going to be valuable to everyone. From a marketing point of view, I had to start somewhere with an audience I knew to get my message across :)

Flemlord 5y ago

I love the concept; I've already created some lists of things I'd be embarrassed to show non-ADHD folks. Feature request: Rename existing lists and list items.

Swalden123 5y ago
You can rename existing lists by tapping edit on the top left and then tapping the name :) Renaming items is coming soon.

mdrachuk 5y ago

I had a lot of fun making a less generalized version of that: https://apps.apple.com/ua/app/yosanity-morning/id1500266556 https://apps.apple.com/ua/app/yosanity-morning/id1500266556 An app just for morning routines, which is important to structure the whole day. The app is totally free now, it works via iCloud, so I don’t have any servers to maintain.

zeristor 5y ago

How about tying this in with the HealthKit to log when you've taken the medication. The thing is after a while I get fed up of my live being lived through ticking off boxes in a checklist, its OK for things on a weekly and above basis, but I don't like it for a daily reminder.

Swalden123 5y ago
Great idea re the HealthKit integration, something I will consider.

nxrabl 5y ago

Very nice app! I had just started working on my own implementation of a similar app, so I'm glad I don't have to do that anymore! One thing I notice is that when using VoiceOver to read out elements on the screen, there don't seem to be any labels on routine items, so a screen reader user wouldn't know what was on their checklist, and the labels on the big blue + icons in the lower right don't say what they do.

Swalden123 5y ago
Accessibility is something I am currently working on. Should be 100% soon :)

aeonflux 5y ago

Not sure if thats the place to report bugs, but the app is unusable for me - the lists shows white text on white background. All input boxes do not show the text as well (due to same fg/bg colors). Is it because I use dark mode?

Swalden123 5y ago
Hi :) I had quite a few reports of this issue. Dark mode on it's own works, however if you also have Increase Contrast (Under accessibility > Display & Text size on as well it causes this issue. I just submitted an update to Apple 30 minutes ago that will fix this issue once they approve it (Usually within around 12 hours or so) :)

arvigeus 5y ago

Is there a way to make tasks only for a certain day?

vassilevsky 5y ago

Man, I've been wanting for this for YEARS!