Most of us use productivity apps daily, but very few actually know all the hidden features they offer. These features can save you hours, reduce stress, and boost focus — yet they’re often overlooked.
In this article, we’ll reveal hidden features inside popular productivity apps like Todoist, Notion, Google Calendar, Trello, and more. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your favorite tools.
1. Todoist – Natural Language Task Entry
- Type “Meeting tomorrow at 3 pm” and Todoist automatically sets the date and reminder.
- Saves time compared to manually setting due dates.
- Works across all platforms.
👉 Pro tip: Combine with recurring tasks like “Pay bills every 1st of the month” and Todoist does the rest.
2. Google Calendar – Appointment Slots
- Hidden under settings, you can create appointment slots.
- Perfect for freelancers, teachers, or consultants to let others book time directly.
- Integrates smoothly with Google Meet.
3. Notion – Synced Databases
- Few users know you can sync one database across multiple pages.
- Update it in one place, and changes reflect everywhere.
- Ideal for shared content calendars or study notes.
4. Trello – Butler Automations
- Trello has an in-built automation tool called Butler.
- Example: Automatically move a card to “Done” when you check off the last checklist item.
- Saves tons of manual clicks.
5. Slack – /Remind Command
- Use /remind [user] [task] [time] to set personal or team reminders.
- Example: /remind me to send report at 4pm.
- No external integration needed.
6. Evernote – Document Scanning
- Hidden in the mobile app → use Evernote as a document scanner.
- Saves PDFs directly into your notes.
- Great for receipts, contracts, or study materials.
7. Microsoft To Do – My Day Feature
- Each morning, you can curate a daily focus list separate from your full task list.
- Keeps you from feeling overwhelmed.
- Perfect for users who want a simple, focused daily plan.
Comparison Table – Hidden Features
| App | Hidden Feature | Why It Matters |
| Todoist | Natural language tasks | Faster task creation |
| Google Calendar | Appointment slots | Easy scheduling with clients |
| Notion | Synced databases | One update, multiple views |
| Trello | Butler automation | Saves time with repetitive tasks |
| Slack | /Remind command | Boosts accountability |
| Evernote | Document scanner | Turns notes into digital storage |
| Microsoft To Do | My Day | Focuses only on today’s tasks |
FAQs
Do I need premium versions to use these features?
Some, like Todoist’s advanced recurring tasks or Trello automations, are premium. But many are free (Google Calendar slots, Slack reminders).
Can these features replace other apps?
Yes. For example, Evernote’s document scanner means you don’t need a separate scanning app.
These hidden features prove that popular productivity apps have more power than most users realize. By unlocking them, you can simplify your workflow, save time, and boost focus.
👉 Start today: Open your favorite app, test one of these features, and see how it transforms your productivity.