SOP: Step by Step to Create a Schedule in Microsoft Project
1. Create New Project
Open Microsoft Project → click Blank Project.
2. Set Project Start Date
Go to Project → Project Information → set Start Date.
3. Set Working Time
Go to Project →
Change Working Time.
Set working days, holidays, and
working hours.
4. Add Main Work Sections
Create big tasks first, for example:
Mobilization
Foundation Work
Structural Work
Masonry Work
MEP Work
Finishing Work
Handover
5. Break Down Tasks
Under each main section, add smaller tasks.
Example:
Foundation Work
Excavation
Lean concrete
Rebar installation
Formwork
Concrete pouring
Curing
6. Create Summary Tasks
Select the small tasks → click Indent Task.
The main
task becomes a summary task.
7. Add Duration
Enter duration for each task.
Example:
Excavation: 3 days
Rebar installation: 2 days
Concrete pouring: 1 day
8. Link Tasks
Select tasks in order → click Link Tasks.
This creates
task dependency: one task starts after another finishes.
9. Add Milestones
Set duration to 0 days for important points.
Example:
Foundation Completed — 0 days
Roof Completed — 0 days
Project Handover — 0 days
10. Add Resources
Go to Resource Sheet and add:
Site Manager
Engineer
Workers
Subcontractor
Equipment
Then assign resources to tasks.
11. Check Critical Path
Go to Format → turn on
Critical Tasks.
Critical tasks are tasks that can delay
the whole project.
12. Save Baseline
After the schedule is approved:
Go to Project →
Set Baseline → Set Baseline.
13. Update Progress Weekly
Every week, update:
% Complete
Actual Start
Actual Finish
Remaining Duration
14. Report Delay
Compare actual progress with baseline.
If delayed, adjust manpower,
sequence, or working hours.