Predecessor tasks (or just predecessors) are used to link tasks dependent on other tasks. For example, you would not want to host a party (dependent task) before you send out the invitations (predecessor task).

This overview will cover setting predecessors using the Predecessors tab within a task.

For more information about setting predecessors in a list of tasks, see  "Creating a Predecessor Relationship on the Task List."

Once the predecessor is created, it will display on the Predecessors tab, in the Gantt Chart, and task list displaying the relationship between this task and the designated task.

To create a predecessor for a task:

1. Begin by navigating to a task, then select the Predecessor tab.
   You might need to click More first, then select the Predecessors tab.
   
2. In the Predecessors sub-tab, click on the +Add Predecessor button. 
   
3. (Optional) To add a cross-project predecessor, click the Cross-Project Predecessor sub-tab, then Add Predecessor.
   For more information about adding cross-project predecessors, see "Cross-Project Predecessors."
4. Type in the name of the task to establish a relationship with. 
   
5. Select a Dependency Type.
   For more information about task Dependency Types, see a "Understanding Dependency Types." 
6. Specify a Lag amount in days.
   For more  information about Lag Types, see ​"Understanding Lag Types."
7. Select Enforced if you want to enforce the predecessor relationship between the two tasks.  For more information about enforcing predecessors, see "Enforcing Predecessors."
8. Select Save.