work to a schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "work to a schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance of adhering to a planned timeline or timetable for tasks or projects. Example: "In order to meet our deadlines, we need to work to a schedule and ensure that everyone is on track."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The discipline of working to a schedule "flew out the ornate windows", Leng writes, along with his usual painstaking approach to recording.

Wikipedia

While you are working to a schedule with regular rests, if you can skip stations that nobody is waiting for, then talk with colleagues in the same bus route to find a convenient bus stations for intermediate resting spot, or simply take longer stops in shorter streets to maintain 'headway'headway

WikiHow

The foundation will then work to an aggressive schedule to open source all the essential software platform components for building a mobile device.

TechCrunch

He worked to a tight schedule and wanted to get back to his farm as quickly as possible".

The Guardian - Arts

As far as possible, they will produce food, water and materials in situ, though regular cargo launches from Earth will supplement these.If Inspiration Mars is working to a brisk schedule, then Mars One's plans seem positively frantic.

The Economist

Working to a tight schedule, Hampson created each Dan Dare episode first in pencil, and then in ink and colour.

Wikipedia

When they called him at work to schedule a meeting, saying that they were the police, he had a feeling it was the Stasi and asked a friend to be there with him when they arrived.

Huffington Post

We worked to maintain a schedule during these weeks, to create structure and normalcy for Donna.

Huffington Post

For some, it may be motivating to work flexible work hours, to customize a schedule to meet personal needs.

Huffington Post

For instance, the firm helped to work out a schedule to give BP more time to turn over corporate documents in the face of a dozen Congressional hearings.

The New York Times

First, I agreed to work a schedule where I worked for two consecutive days followed by two days off in between.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When outlining project tasks, "work to a schedule" by breaking them down into manageable steps, assigning realistic deadlines, and regularly monitoring progress to ensure timely completion.

Common error

Avoid rigidly adhering to a schedule when unforeseen circumstances arise; instead, be prepared to adjust deadlines and priorities while still "working to a schedule" that remains achievable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "work to a schedule" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of adhering to a predetermined plan or timetable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, as evidenced by numerous examples across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "work to a schedule" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that indicates a commitment to following a predetermined plan. According to Ludwig AI, it's considered correct and appears in a wide array of sources. The phrase's neutral register and clear communicative purpose of stressing the importance of structure and deadlines make it suitable for various contexts. While alternatives like "adhere to a timeline" exist, "work to a schedule" uniquely emphasizes the active effort involved in maintaining that schedule, highlighting diligence and discipline. To use the phrase effectively, break tasks into steps and set realistic deadlines while remaining adaptable to unforeseen circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adhere to a timeline

Focuses on strict adherence to a set timeline, emphasizing punctuality.

stick to a timetable

Emphasizes following a structured plan, especially in terms of timing.

keep to a plan

Highlights the importance of not deviating from an established strategy.

follow a regimen

Implies a structured and disciplined approach to a task or activity.

maintain a routine

Suggests consistency and regularity in performing tasks.

observe a protocol

Stresses the importance of following established procedures or guidelines.

execute according to a plan

Stresses the importance of following steps that have been established.

operate within a framework

Highlights that the activities are constraint in an established framework.

meet deadlines

Focuses on achieving goals within specific time constraints.

be bound by a system

Emphasizes that established rules are compulsory for activities.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "work to a schedule" in a sentence?

Use "work to a schedule" to emphasize the importance of adhering to a planned timeline. For instance, "In order to meet project deadlines, the team must "work to a schedule" and track their progress."

What are some alternatives to saying "work to a schedule"?

Alternatives include "stick to a timetable", "adhere to a timeline", or "follow a regimen" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "work to a schedule" in professional communication?

It's appropriate when discussing project management, task delegation, or any situation where meeting deadlines is critical. It conveys a commitment to staying organized and on track.

How does "work to a schedule" differ from simply 'having a schedule'?

"Having a schedule" implies the existence of a plan, while "work to a schedule" emphasizes the active effort and commitment to following that plan and meeting its defined targets. It suggests diligence and discipline.