How to create task dependencies in ClickUp
Learn how to make one ClickUp task wait on another by adding a Blocked by dependency from the task view, so your team knows what to finish first.
Quick answer
Open the task that must wait, select Relate items or add dependencies, and choose This task is blocked by. Search for the task it depends on, such as Design pricing page, and pick it. ClickUp then shows a Blocked by row on the task, so your team sees what must finish first.
Steps at a glance
- Open the task that has to wait
- Select Relate items or add dependencies
- Choose This task is blocked by
- Search for and pick the task it depends on
- Check the Blocked by row on the task
Interactive demo
Summary
A dependency links two ClickUp tasks so one cannot move ahead until the other is done. It makes the order of work visible on the task itself, which cuts handoff mistakes.
Step-by-step guide
Step 1
Open the task that is waiting
Go to your List and click the task that cannot start yet, for example QA signup flow. The task view opens with its status, dates and description.
Step 2
Add a dependency
Near the bottom of the task view, click Relate items or add dependencies. A short menu of relationship types opens.
Step 3
Choose the dependency type
Select This task is blocked by... to say this task waits on another one. The menu also offers This task blocks... for the opposite direction.
Step 4
Pick the task it depends on
Type part of the task name in the Search box, then click the match, for example Design pricing page.
Step 5
Check the Blocked by row
The task now shows a Blocked by row with the task it waits on. Use Remove dependency in the Relationships section if you need to undo the link.
Why this matters
You are launching a website and QA cannot start testing the signup flow until the pricing page design is finished. A dependency records that order on the task, so nobody picks up work too early.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between blocks and blocked by?
This task is blocked by... means the open task waits on another one. This task blocks... means other work waits on the open task.
Can I add a dependency to a task in a different List?
The task picker showed tasks beyond the current List when searching, so you can search by name to find the one you need.
Related guides
Continue with more step-by-step guides for getting work done.
How to create a task in ClickUpLearn how to create a task in ClickUp from a List view: open Add Task, name the task, and save it with Create Task so it appears in your List.
How to add subtasks in ClickUpAdd a subtask to any ClickUp task from the task view: open the task, click Add subtask, name it, and save it so the work breaks into smaller steps.
How to set due dates in ClickUpSet a due date on any ClickUp task from the List view. Pick a quick option such as Next week or a day on the calendar and see it in the Due date column.
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