The Eisenhower matrix is a tool used to help individuals prioritize their tasks by urgency and importance. It is named after President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who is reported to have used a similar system to manage his time. The Eisenhower matrix is helpful because it provides a simple framework for thinking about and prioritizing tasks. It can be used to quickly identify which tasks are most important and need to be done first, and which tasks can be put off or delegated to others.