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How to Make a Timeline on Google Docs [A Complete Guide]

August 24, 2023 1.4K views

Creating a timeline is an essential part of any project, whether you are working on a personal project or managing a team for work, which take time and effort. Luckily, with the help of Google Docs, you can create a timeline quickly and easily.

We’ll guide you through creating a timeline on Google Docs and provide an alternative (WPS Office) for those who prefer a different approach. With proper instructions, you can quickly create a timeline on Google Docs.

So if you want to know how to make a timeline on Google Docs, read on!

Step by Step Create A Timeline on Google Docs

Do you have an important project or event coming up? Creating a timeline is a great way to stay organized and track progress. We will guide you through creating a timeline on Google Docs, a powerful online document editor provided by Google.

Let's dive in!

Step 1: Open a Google document

Open a Google document
  • The first step is to open Google Docs.

  • If you don't have an account yet, don't worry!

  • You can easily create one for free.

  • Once logged in, you'll find yourself in the main Google Docs dashboard.

  • This is where the magic happens!

Step 2: Set the page orientation

Set the page orientation
  • You must set the correct page orientation to ensure your timeline fits perfectly.

  • Click on "File" in the top left corner, then select "Page setup" from the dropdown menu.

  • A window will pop up, allowing you to choose between portrait or landscape orientation.

  • Landscape orientation is usually the best timeline choice, providing more horizontal space.

Step 3: Open the drawing tool

Open the drawing tool
  • Now that your document is ready, it's time to open the drawing tool.

  • To do this, click "Insert" in the top menu, then select "Drawing" from the dropdown menu.

  • A new window will appear, showing a blank canvas where you can start creating your timeline.

Step 4: Create the timeline

Create the timeline
  • On the drawing canvas, you can begin drawing your timeline.

  • Start by drawing a horizontal line across the canvas, representing the timeline.

Create the timeline
  • Ensure the line is long enough to accommodate all your events or tasks.

  • You can also adjust the thickness and color of the line to add a personal touch.

Step 5: Add events or tasks to the timeline

Add events or tasks to the timeline
  • With the timeline structure in place, it's time to add the important events or tasks you want to track.

  • To do this, click the "Text box" icon in the drawing tool and position it on the desired spot along the timeline.

  • You can then enter the event or task details inside the text box.

  • Repeat this step for each event or task you want to include.

Step 6: Add images

Add images
  • Visuals can enhance the look of your timeline and make it more engaging.

  • To add images, click the "Image" icon in the drawing tool and select the image you want to upload.

  • Place it near the relevant event or task, and resize it if necessary.

  • This way, you can have a timeline with text and visuals representing each milestone or event.

Now You have successfully created a timeline on Google Docs. Now you can keep track of your project, event, or any other important endeavor with ease. Remember, a timeline can visually guide you and help you stay organized.

So why not give it a try? Happy timeline creating!

Using Timeline Templates for Your Timeline on Google Docs

Using Timeline Templates in Google Docs

If you're wondering how to make a timeline on Google Docs, you'll be happy to know that Google Docs comes with timeline templates that can make your life easier. Let's take a look at how to use them.

Step 1: Open Google Docs and Click on Template Gallery

Open the Google Doc and Click on Template Gallery

First, open Google Docs and click the "Template Gallery" button at the top of the page.

Step 2: Search for "Timeline" Templates

In the Template Gallery search bar, type "Timeline" to search for timeline templates. Google Docs will then provide you with several timeline templates to choose from.

Step 3: Choose Your Timeline Template

Choose Your Timeline Template

Choose the timeline template that best suits your needs. Once you've selected your timeline template, click on it to open it up in Google Docs.

Step 4: Customize Your Timeline

Customize your timeline to fit your specific needs. This includes changing the title, adding milestones, changing the timeline duration, etc.

Step 5: Save and Share

Once you've completed your timeline, save it and share it with your team or other collaborators. This is a great way to stay organized and on track with your projects.

3 Timeline Template Options for Google Docs

Are you wondering how to use timeline templates on google sheets but don't want to start from scratch? Well, we've got you covered! There are plenty of free timeline templates available online that you can use for your project.

Here are three timeline template options for Google Docs:

The website offers customizable timeline templates to import into your Google Docs. They have options for project timelines, history timelines, and more. Pick your template, add your text, and you're done!

If you prefer using Google Sheets instead of Google Docs, Smartsheet has a range of timeline templates available. These templates are also fully customizable. You can even include images and links in your timeline.

This website has a variety of timeline templates that you can import into Google Docs, including Gantt charts and swimlane diagrams. They also offer a free trial period to test their templates before committing.

With these templates, you can easily create a timeline without starting from scratch. So go ahead and give them a try!

Benefits of Making a Timeline on Google Docs

Helps You Visualize Your Project: Making a timeline on Google Docs helps you see all the different tasks and deadlines in one place. This can make it easier to understand the project as a whole.

Helps You Stay Organized: You can stay on top of everything by putting all your deadlines and tasks on a timeline. This can ensure you remember important tasks or deadlines.

Makes Collaboration Easier: If you are working on a project with others, sharing a timeline can help everyone understand what needs to be done. This can reduce misunderstandings and make collaboration smoother.

Can Help You Meet Deadlines: When you have a timeline, it is easier to see when you need to complete specific tasks. This can help you meet deadlines and avoid last-minute rushes.

It can Be Used for a Variety of Projects: You can use a timeline for almost any project, from planning a wedding to organizing a work project.

These tools can improve your productivity and make your projects run more smoothly.

Limitations of Google Docs

Google Docs is an excellent document creation tool, but some things could be improved.

Here are a few:

Offline access: If you don't have an internet connection, you won't be able to access your Google Docs.

Compatibility issues: Google Docs sometimes play nice with other programs. For example, some formatting might need to be fixed when you export a Google Doc to a Word file.

Limited templates: While some templates are available in Google Docs, there are fewer than you might find in other programs.

Less robust features: Compared to other programs like Microsoft Word, Google Docs has fewer advanced features. For example, you need help to create an index or table of contents easily.

Limited drawing tools: While Google Docs do have some drawing tools, they aren't as advanced as other programs like Adobe Illustrator.

Limited timeline options: While creating a timeline in Google Docs is possible, there are fewer options than in other timeline software.

Why Use WPS Office

Do you need help to create a timeline on Google Docs? Well, you're not alone. A lot of people need help creating timelines on Google Docs.

But there's good news! There's an alternative office suite that makes it easier to create timelines and other documents - WPS Office.

Here's why you should consider using WPS Office instead of Google Docs:

WPS Office Interface

Price:

WPS Office is completely free! That's right. You don't have to pay a penny to use it. This is excellent news if you're on a tight budget and don't want to spend money on expensive software.

Features:

Let's explore some of the standout features of this versatile software.

Intuitive User Interface

  • WPS Office boasts a user-friendly interface that ensures easy navigation and a seamless user experience.

  • The intuitive design suits users of all ages, including young learners.

Word Processor

  • The word processor in WPS Office allows you to create and edit documents with utmost ease.

  • Utilize the extensive range of formatting options to bring your ideas to life.

  • Collaborate with others using the track changes feature for easy review and editing.

Word Processor

Spreadsheets

  • WPS Office’s spreadsheet tool provides comprehensive functions for managing and analyzing data.

  • Effortlessly organize your data with the ability to sort, filter, and format cells.

  • Create powerful formulas and perform complex calculations with ease.

Presentation Software

  • WPS Office includes feature-rich presentation software that helps you create captivating slideshows.

  • Choose from various templates and layouts to showcase your ideas visually appealingly.

  • Utilize animation and transition effects to engage your audience during presentations.

Presentation Software

PDF Reader and Converter

  • With WPS Office, you can conveniently open and view PDF files without additional software.

  • Annotate and add comments to PDF documents to collaborate effectively.

  • Seamlessly convert PDF files into editable formats like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Cloud Integration

  • WPS Office offers seamless integration with popular cloud storage platforms.

  • Access your files from anywhere, anytime, using services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive.

  • Sync your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations across multiple devices for enhanced productivity.

Easy to use:

Creating a timeline on WPS Office is easy-peasy. You can easily drag and drop events to different dates, add descriptions and images, and customize the look and feel of your timeline. You can even add links to external sources to provide more information.

Compatible with Microsoft Office:

WPS Office has you covered if you work with others who use Microsoft Office. You can easily share your documents with others without worrying about compatibility issues.

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WPS Office- Free All-in-One Office Suite
  • Use Word, Excel, and PPT for FREE, No Ads.

  • Edit PDF files with the powerful PDF toolkit.

  • Microsoft-like interface. Easy to learn. 100% Compatibility.

  • Boost your productivity with WPS's abundant free Word, Excel, PPT, and CV templates.

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FAQs about How to Make a Timeline on Google Docs

Can I collaborate with others on timeline creation?

Yes! You can share your Google Docs with others so they can add to it too. It's like coloring a picture together!

Can I include images or multimedia content in my timeline?

Yes! You can add pictures, videos, and other cool stuff to improve your timeline. Just click "Insert" and choose what you want to add. Easy-peasy!

Final Thoughts about How to Make a Timeline on Google Docs

With this new skill, you can organize your projects, plans, and events in an easy-to-understand visual format. However, Google Docs has its limitations, and it might be beneficial to consider other options, such as the WPS Office.

WPS Office provides you with all the necessary features for timeline creation, including advanced templates, graphics, and multimedia. It is also an excellent alternative if you collaborate with others on your timeline project. With the WPS Office, you can easily share your timeline and work together with your team, regardless of their location.

Remember that timelines can be creative and fun! Add pictures and colors to make it more exciting. Making a timeline may take some practice, but once you get the hang of it, you can create unique timelines quickly.

Start today and take your projects to the next level!

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.