How Do I Get Started With MS Project? An Introduction to the Basics

Posted on 02/18/2025 by Niko Venev

Getting Started With Microsoft Project: An Introduction to the Basics

For beginners, the hardest part of using Microsoft Project is often just knowing where to begin. The software offers a variety of tools to plan, manage, and monitor projects, but taking a few simple steps can help you navigate its features with confidence.


       

Live Microsoft Project Instructor-led Courses

Course Title Length Price (USD)
Project - Level 1 1 day $350
Project - Level 2 1 day $350
Project - Combo (Levels 1 & 2) 2 days $625
       

Self-Paced Microsoft Project eLearning

Course Title Length Price (USD)
Project 2016/2019 eLearning Bundle 6 courses $300
Project 365 eLearning Bundle 6 courses $300
Project 2016/2019: Part 1 - Beginner 5 courses $150
Project 2016/2019: Part 2 - Advanced 5 courses $150
Project 365: Part 1 - Beginner 5 courses $150
Project 365: Part 2 - Advanced 5 courses $150

Identify Your Version of MS Project

Getting started with Microsoft Project starts with figuring out which version of the software you have. Each version comes with different capabilities, which can impact how you manage your work. For example, Project Online includes only basic functions, while Project Professional has more advanced features for in-depth project management. Understanding your software version ensures that you're using the right tools for the job.

 

Add a Project and Tasks

No matter which version you're using, getting started with Microsoft Project means becoming familiar with its core tools. Start by creating a project, then add tasks to it. If you're working on a complex, multi-phase project, try using subtasks and the indent feature to keep things organized. If certain tasks depend on each other, you can link them to create dependencies, which will help you to track progress through each step of a project more accurately.

 

Take Advantage of Built-in Templates

Microsoft Project has a reputation for being complex, but premade templates can make your intro to MS Project much easier. Some templates come pre-installed, while others can be downloaded. These templates can help users:

  • Track project progress
  • Take notes
  • Identify goals and objectives
  • Determine milestones
  • Assign tasks

Project templates can streamline common tasks like setting schedules, tracking budgets, and managing deadlines. They're also useful for larger-scale projects, such as starting a business or launching a new piece of software. And if you prefer a specific project management style, there's likely to be a template that matches it in Microsoft Project, so getting started can be as simple as choosing between Kanban, Waterfall, Scrum, and Agile templates.

 

Choose the Right View

Beginners often wonder, "How do I get started with MS Project?" because the program's complexity can feel overwhelming. One way to simplify your workflow is by choosing the best view for your project. Different views let you see and organize data in a way that makes the most sense for your needs. By default, Microsoft Project opens in Gantt Chart view, which uses bar charts to display a project's timeline. However, you can switch views by selecting the View tab and choosing from options like Resource Sheet view or Task Sheet view. You can also customize views by adjusting text styles, modifying Gantt bars, or combining elements from different layouts. If you create a custom view that works well, you can save it as a template to use with future projects.

 

Sign up for Microsoft Project Classes and Learn With Ease

At Certstaffix Training, we know that getting started with Microsoft Project can be a bit daunting, but it doesn't have to be when you work with our knowledgeable instructors. Our Level 1 course is a great MS Project introduction, while Level 2 digs into more advanced skills. Both of our Microsoft Project courses include hands-on experience and a curriculum that's professionally designed to help you learn quickly and easily. Enroll in our online or onsite classes today to learn how to use MS Project like a professional project manager!

 



 


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Public instructor-led Microsoft Project course prices start at $350 per student. Group training discounts are available.

Self-Paced Microsoft Project eLearning courses cost $150 at the starting point per student. Group purchase discounts are available.







 

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