Overview
This tutorial explains how to create a timeline in Microsoft Word using SmartArt graphics and customize it with events.
Creating a New Document and Inserting SmartArt
- Open a new document in Microsoft Word.
- Click on the "Insert" tab in the ribbon at the top.
- In the "Illustrations" section, click the "SmartArt" logo.
Selecting and Inserting a Timeline
- In the "Choose a SmartArt Graphic" window, select "Process" from the options on the left.
- Browse the right panel and select "Basic Timeline" or another appropriate timeline style.
- Click "OK" to insert the timeline graphic into your document.
Adding and Editing Timeline Events
- Enter your timeline events directly into the SmartArt graphic.
- To add more events, click the arrow next to an event to expand options.
- Right-click on the target event, then select "Add Shape" and choose "Add Shape After" or "Add Shape Before" to insert a new point.
- Add text to each timeline point as needed.
Key Terms & Definitions
- SmartArt — a feature in Word for creating visual diagrams and graphics.
- Timeline — a graphical representation of events in chronological order.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice creating a timeline in Word using SmartArt.
- Try adding, editing, and removing timeline events to become familiar with the process.