Posted on 02/18/2025 by Niko Venev
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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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!