How to Make a Timeline on Microsoft PowerPoint

Using a timeline in Microsoft PowerPoint is an effective way to illustrate growth or progress over time. PowerPoint 2007 has a built-in timeline feature that automates and simplifies the process so you can focus on crafting a dynamic presentation rather than messing with the details of the graphics.

• 1

  Click on the "Insert" tab, then click on the "SmartArt" button in the "Illustrations" area. Click on "Process" and select one of the "Timeline" layouts available. Add text to your timeline by clicking any place that says "[Text]" and typing or pasting in the text you want.

• 2

  Add items to your timeline. Click on the timeline to select it, click on the "Design" tab, click on "SmartArt Tools" and click on "Add Shape." Delete an unwanted entry by clicking on it and pressing the "Delete" key on your keyboard. Move an entry by clicking and dragging it to the location you desire.

• 3

  Change the layout of your timeline by right-clicking on the timeline and selecting "Change Layout." Any of the SmartArt layouts are available. Your text will remain the same from layout to layout so you can adjust the design without changing the content.

• 4

  Animate the presentation of your timeline to highlight individual events. Click on the "Animations" tab, then click on "Animate" and select "One by One" so that each item on your timeline will be revealed separately during the slideshow. You will need to click your mouse for each event listed on your timeline if you choose this animation style.