How to Use Description and Comment Columns on the Task List

Project Insight allows you to add and edit task descriptions and comments directly from the project task list. The way you edit the content depends on whether the task list displays the text-only column or the editable description column.

Best for: Project managers and team members who want to add task details, updates, comments, or @mentions without opening the full task edit screen.

What is the difference between Description and Description Text Only?

The Description Text Only column displays the task description in the task list, but you cannot type directly into its cell during inline editing. You must use the edit arrow to open the description window.

The Description column allows you to open and edit the description while working in inline edit mode.

Project Insight provides both options so teams can choose whether the task list should primarily display description text or provide easier access to editing it.

How do I add a description using the Description Text Only column?

1. Open the project task list.
2. Make sure the Description Text Only column is visible.
3. Double-click the task to enter inline edit mode.
4. Select the small arrow in the Description Text Only field.
5. Enter the task description in the window that opens.
6. Select OK to continue editing or Save to save the task.

The description then appears in the task list.

Why can’t I type directly into the Description Text Only cell?

The Description Text Only column is designed to display the description as plain text. Even when the task is in inline edit mode, the cell itself is not used for typing.

Select the arrow in the field to open the description window and make your changes.

How do I add a comment from the task list?

1. Find the task in the project task list.
2. Select the cell in the Last Comment Text Only column.
3. Enter the new comment.
4. Select OK or save the task.

You do not need to place the entire task into inline edit mode before adding a comment. You can select the comment cell directly.

Can I mention someone in a task comment?

Yes. You can include an @mention when entering a comment from the task list.

This helps teams connect a task update to a specific person while keeping the conversation associated with the task.

How do I make the description easier to edit from the task list?

Replace the Description Text Only column with the Description column in Display Options.

1. Open Display Options from the task list.
2. Remove or replace Description Text Only.
3. Add the Description column.
4. Return to the task list.

When you enter inline edit mode, the Description column provides access to the description editor directly from the task row.

How do I edit a description using the Description column?

1. Display the Description column in the task list.
2. Double-click the task to enter inline edit mode.
3. Select the Description field.
4. Edit the description in the window that opens.
5. Select Save.

Project Insight does this by opening the full description editor from the inline task row instead of requiring you to open the entire task.

When should I use a task description instead of a comment?

Use the task description for information that explains the task itself, such as its purpose, instructions, requirements, or expected outcome.

Use comments for updates, questions, discussions, or new information added as work progresses.

In short, descriptions explain the task, while comments document the conversation and updates around the task.

What should I check before editing descriptions and comments?

• Confirm whether the task list shows Description or Description Text Only.
• Use the arrow when the text-only description field cannot be edited directly.
• Select the comment cell directly when adding a new comment.
• Save the task after making changes.
• Use Display Options if the column you need is not visible.

What are common mistakes when editing task descriptions and comments?

• Trying to type directly into the Description Text Only cell
• Assuming the task must be in inline edit mode before adding a comment
• Editing a comment when the information belongs in the task description
• Leaving the text-only column displayed when frequent description editing is needed
• Closing the task without saving the new description or comment

Related questions

Can I edit a task description without opening the full task?

Yes. Use the description field from the task list to open the description editor.

Do I need inline edit mode to add a comment?

No. You can select the comment column cell directly and enter a new comment.

Why does the Description column open a separate window?

The window provides space to enter and edit the full task description while remaining in the task list.

Can I change which description column appears?

Yes. Use Display Options to switch between Description Text Only and Description.

Where can I get help with task list columns?

Visit Project Insight Support for help configuring task list columns or editing task information.

[Related article placeholder: Add a link to the Project Insight article about configuring task list Display Options.]