How to Paste a Timeline From Another Program Into PowerPoint
A straightforward way to get a timeline into your PowerPoint presentation file is to create it in another program, copy it, and paste it into PowerPoint. Just export the timeline from a program like Microsoft Project or Excel into a graphical format such as JPG, GIF, or PNG, then insert the timeline graphic into PowerPoint like you would insert pictures or clipart. It’s also possible to link the timeline in a way similar to adding Excel data to Word, which updates automatically when you make changes.
How to Make a Timeline in PowerPoint With SmartArt
PowerPoint also offers a built-in function, called SmartArt, which makes adding timelines a breeze. SmartArt objects are configurable graphics that you set up in a point-and-click fashion. To use a SmartArt graphic for a timeline:
How to Make a Timeline in PowerPoint With a Template
There are pre-configured PowerPoint templates that allow you to quickly piece together a timeline. The PPTX file pictured above is available from the Microsoft Office Template Gallery. Move and copy the existing objects on these timeline templates to create new phases of the timeline, or new milestones and annotations. This method is a bit more hands-on, but it allows you to get the exact results you want.
How to Create a Timeline in PowerPoint With an Add-In
Another approach is to use a PowerPoint Add-in specifically built for creating timelines. Office Timeline is an excellent choice if you’re looking to add project timelines (e.g., Gantt Charts), and it’s available in a free version. You’ll need a few minutes to get up and running with the following steps: Once installed, a new Office Timeline Free tab is added to Powerpoint. This tab contains tools to create new timelines, select the style of timeline to be inserted, and enter or import the data on which the timeline is based. Armed with the above options, you’re now prepared to create any type of timeline you want in PowerPoint.
