The MoSCoW method is a technique used to prioritize tasks and requirements within projects. By using it, the team ensures that it remains focused on objectives and that resources are distributed efficiently.

The MoSCoW method is useful for learning how to manage your time, resources, and priorities, whether in school, personal life, or career development. Although it is a technique used predominantly in project management and software development, its principles can be adapted to support organizing activities and making important decisions.

MoSCoW is an acronym that stands for four categories of priorities:

• M – Must have. In this category, essential requirements are introduced that must be met. They cannot be negotiated because failure to do so will cause the project to fail.
• S – Should have. This category introduces requirements that are important but not essential for the project. Their lack can create difficulties but does not compromise the project.
• C – Could have. These are requirements that are desirable but not essential. You can include them if you have the time and resources. Removing them would not significantly affect the project’s success.
• W – Won’t have. They are requirements that are not planned for implementation in this phase or project. They are usually postponed or excluded.

Example. Homework for school:

1. Must have: Finish the presentation project that is due tomorrow.
2. Should have: You are studying for next week’s test.
3. Could have: You’re working on an additional creative project for a school competition.
4. Won’t have for now: You’re reading a new novel for fun — it can be postponed for the weekend.

You manage time efficiently. Do you often face many simultaneous responsibilities (homework, exams, extracurricular activities, hobbies)? Applying the MoSCoW method, you learn to prioritize essential tasks (“Must have”) and allocate time efficiently.

Example: Tasks that are essential to pass an exam would be “Must have”, while relaxation activities could be “Could have” or “Won’t have”, depending on the moment.

 You develop your decision-making capacity. Using MoSCoW develops more structured thinking regarding which activities deserve immediate attention and what can be postponed or eliminated. This helps you make more informed decisions and avoid procrastination.

Example: If you have to choose between learning for an important test and going out with friends, the MoSCoW method can help you decide that the test is a “Must have” and the output can be “Won’t have” at that time.

You reduce stress. A clear prioritization of requirements and activities helps reduce feelings of overwhelm. When you know what’s essential and what can be left out, you can avoid trying to do too many things simultaneously.

Example: During an exam period, you can use MoSCoW to focus on core subjects and critical exams, thus reducing the anxiety of being unable to cover everything.

 You plan for the long term. If you want to plan personal or professional goals, you can use the MoSCoW method to structure your short, medium and long-term goals. This can include both career planning and life goals.

Example: If you want to become a programmer you could prioritize learning a programming language like “Must have”, learning secondary languages like “Should have” and other non-essential activities like “Could have”.

Lack of experience in prioritization. You may have difficulty distinguishing between “Must have” and “Should have”, especially if you have no experience in time management. You can consider too many things as essential.

External influences. Friends, family or teachers may influence you as to what your priorities should be, which can make it difficult to apply the method objectively.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the ANPCDEFP. Neither the European Union nor the ANPCDEFP can be held responsible for them.