Microsoft Project 2013: The Missing Manual

Creating a New Project File

Before you can create that schedule you’re itching to get started on, you have to create a new Project file. This file is like a container that holds the project’s tasks, its resources, and the relationships between them. You can even attach other project documents to it (Documenting Work Details in Word), like your scope statement or requirements. This section describes several ways to create a new Microsoft Project file: from scratch, using predefined templates, from an existing Project file, or from an Excel workbook. The box on Project’s Get Started Template describes the guided tour offered by Project’s Get Started template.

Note

If you have tasks set up in SharePoint, Project can also create a new project from a SharePoint task list. On Backstage view’s New page (to display it, click File→New), click the “New from SharePoint Tasks List” icon. Online-only Chapter 25 (available from this book’s Missing CD page at www.missingmanuals.com/cds) shows you how this works.

Creating a Blank Project File

If you’re starting an unconventional project or want to unleash your maximum creativity, a new blank Project file is like an empty canvas. Here are two easy ways to create a blank file:

• From Backstage view. Choose File→New. On the New page, at the top left of the set of template icons, click “Blank project,” and voilà—Project creates a new blank file, called something like Project1.

• With a keyboard shortcut. Anytime the ribbon tabs are visible, simply press Ctrl+N ...