Deep Work Quality Reference Sheet
Cal Newport's Methods for Rating Deep Work
1. Deep Work Formula
High Quality Work Produced = (Time Spent) × (Intensity of Focus)
- Maximize both the hours and your focus for best results.
2. The "Recent College Graduate" Test
Ask:
How many months would it take to train a smart recent college graduate with no specialized training in my field to complete this task?
- Many months = Deep Work
- Little/no training = Shallow Work
3. Qualitative Criteria
Ask yourself: - Does this task require focused attention? - Does this task require specialized training or knowledge? - Does this task create new value in the world? - Would this task be difficult to replicate?
If you answer "yes" to most, it's deep work.
4. Deep Work Hours Scoreboard
- Track and display your deep work hours daily.
- Use a visible tally (on paper, whiteboard, or digital tool) to motivate yourself.
Summary Table
| Method | How to Use It |
|---|---|
| Time × Intensity Formula | Multiply hours spent by focus intensity |
| Recent Grad Replication Test | Estimate months to train a new grad for the task |
| Qualitative Criteria Checklist | Answer key questions about focus, skill, value, replicability |
| Deep Work Hours Scoreboard | Track and display hours spent in deep work |
Keep this sheet visible to remind yourself how to rate and improve your deep work!