Add items to a list in Reminders on iPad

In the Reminders app, you can easily make to-do lists for things like grocery shopping, tasks around the house, and projects at work. When you add an item to a list, you can attach images; set flags; get alerts based on time, date, and location; and more.

A Reminders screen showing reminder lists on the left side, and a to-do list on the right side. The New Reminder button is at the bottom center.

Note: All Reminders features described in this guide are available when you use updated reminders in iCloud. Some features aren’t available when using other accounts.

Make a new list

Open the Reminders app on your iPad.
Tap Add List, then choose an account (if you have more than one account).
Enter a name, then choose a color and symbol for the list.
Tap List Type, then choose Standard, Groceries, or Smart List.

Add an item to a list

Choose a list, tap New Reminder or New Item, then enter text.
If you type text that matches a previously completed reminder, that reminder appears as a suggestion. (To turn off these suggestions, go to Settings > Reminders, then turn off Show Suggestions.)
To enter additional information, tap Add Note.

Set when and where to be reminded

You can be reminded on a certain date, at a specific time or location, or when you’re texting someone in Messages.

Schedule a date and time: Tap , then choose an option.
Set a recurring reminder: Tap , tap Repeat, then choose the frequency.
Get an early reminder before the scheduled date and time: Tap , tap Early Reminder, then choose when you want to be reminded. For example, “5 minutes before,” “2 days before,” or another choice.
Add a location: Tap , then choose where you want to be reminded—for example, when you arrive home or get into a car with a Bluetooth® connection to your iPad.
Note: To receive location-based reminders, you must allow Reminders to use your precise location. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. Turn on Location Services, tap Reminders, choose While Using the App, then turn on Precise Location.
Get a reminder in Messages: Tap , turn on When Messaging, then choose someone from your contacts list. The reminder appears the next time you chat with that person in Messages.