How to Create a Timeline in Google Slides

Learn how to make a timeline in Google Slides in simple steps and how to make a timeline with a possibly better alternative tool.

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Presenting a timeline on Google Slides is a great way to depict chronology. Timelines allow you to present data with ease across various scenarios. They provide a structured way to outline historical events, project milestones, or schedules. They are essential in project management, ensuring tasks and deadlines are on track. Business presentations benefit from timelines as well, showcasing plans and developments. However, it might be hard to navigate through the timeline creation process, so this article will show how to create timelines in Google Slides.

While Google Slides is a popular tool, you might need a dedicated diagram maker to create professional timelines. In that case, consider EdrawMax, which is known for its ease of use. It is also accessible online and has a free version. Read on to learn about the tool if you are interested.

creating a timeline on google slides
Contents of the article
  1. Using Google Slides To Make a Timeline
  2. How To Create a Timeline on Google Slides
  3. Easily Make Complex Timelines With Wondershare EdrawMax
  4. How to Create a Timeline in EdrawMax
  5. Conclusion

Part 1. Using Google Slides to Make a Timeline

Google Slides is a versatile presentation tool. This popular app offers a seamless platform for creating captivating timelines. It's a component of the Google Workspace suite. Google Slides is designed for collaborative and dynamic presentations.

blank google slides template

Key Features

Using these features below allows you to craft informative and compelling timelines. Creating a timeline in Google Slides empowers you to share engaging presentations. Below are its key features.

  • Template Gallery. Google Slides provides a diverse array of templates. It includes specialized timeline templates. They can save you time and effort while ensuring your timeline stands out.
  • Shapes and Diagrams. The Insert menu incorporates a range of shapes and diagrams that can be customized. You can leverage these shapes for timelines to construct chronological sequences and interconnections.
  • Text and Formatting Tools. The intuitive text editor lets you input event details, dates, and explanations. Use formatting options like fonts, sizes, and colors. They can emphasize key elements and maintain visual consistency.
  • Animations and Transitions. Google Slides offers animations and transitions to add dynamism to your timeline presentations. Slide transitions can guide the audience through your timeline's progression.

Part 2. How To Create a Timeline on Google Slides

Unlock the ability to create dynamic timelines on Google Slides. This guide transforms chronological data into engaging visual representations. Here's how.

Step 1a: Launch Google Slides within your web browser. Select Blank from the Template Gallery and click on a fresh slide on the main interface.

user interface of google slides

Step 1b: You can also select a template of a timeline on Google Slides. Click Template Gallery in the upper right corner of your main window. Click a timeline template that suits your preferences.

choosing a timeline template google slides

Step 2: Navigate to the Insert tab. From the dropdown menu, click Diagram. Select the Timeline option to reveal a variety of pre-existing timeline templates. Adjust the number of dates to change the number of shapes as needed.

inserting a timeline on your slide

Step 3: Proceed to input the relevant timeline content into the template. Double-click on the event details along with their corresponding dates on the timeline.

inputting text on google slides

Step 4: To change the colors of the timeline, select the shape you wish to change the color. Click on the top toolbar and locate the Fill Color icon. Apply your preferred color to the desired shape with a simple click. When you finish editing, click File > Download. Choose your preferred format to save your timeline offline.

changing the timeline colors

Part 3. Easily Make Complex Timelines With Wondershare EdrawMax

Although Google Slides is a versatile and powerful tool, but it is not a professional diagram maker. So if you want to make more complex timelines, consider a diagram maker like EdrawMax. In contrast to Google Slides, EdrawMax encompasses diverse visual aids at your disposal. It's equipped with all the features you need to get started right away. Powerful as it is, it is also beginner-friendly. You can easily get started even if you have never used it. 

Software Basics

Below are the fundamental features that set EdrawMind apart.

  • Intuitive Drag-and-Drop Interface. Differing from Google Slides, EdrawMax offers an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. It enables effortless placement of elements and content onto the canvas. The platform enhances user experience and speeds up the design process.
  • Dedicated Timeline Creation Tool. EdrawMax provides a specialized toolkit for timeline creation. Unlike creating timelines on Google Slides, EdrawMax ensures precise alignment. Even the placement and styling of timeline components are spot on. This focused feature simplifies the creation of timelines. It enhances their visual appeal and accuracy.
  • Versatile File Format Support. EdrawMax goes beyond Google Slides with its extensive file format compatibility. It allows seamless import and export of timelines and diagrams in various formats. Compatibility with different software applications and platforms is a major advantage.
  • Online and Offline Availability. EdrawMax caters to diverse needs by offering both online and offline versions. This flexibility allows users to work on timelines irrespective of internet connectivity. It accommodates various work environments and preferences.

Why Choose EdrawMax?

Below are some more reasons to opt for EdrawMax over Google Slides.

compare-edrawmax-with-google-slides

Resource-Rich Professional Diagramming Software

EdrawMax offers a comprehensive suite that goes beyond the capabilities of Google Slides. It's designed for creating intricate diagrams, mind maps, org charts, timelines, and more. This dedicated focus ensures that your visual creations are always pleasing. The diverse range of customization options empowers you to craft impactful timelines.

Enhanced Visual Elements

Unlike Google Slides, EdrawMax provides a diverse and sophisticated array of visual elements. Its extensive library creates polished and professional timelines. EdrawMax's professional features simplify the process of creating timelines. The platform ensures your content always stands out.

Free Trial With No Commitment

EdrawMax offers a "try for free" approach. It allows users to explore its capabilities without any upfront costs or commitments. It enables you to test the platform's premium functionalities before deciding. This risk-free trial empowers you to experience firsthand how EdrawMax. The platform can elevate your timelines based on your preferences.

Part 4. How to Create a Timeline in EdrawMax

With EdrawMax, making a stunning timeline become a breeze. Follow the simple steps below to make an impress diagram to amaze your audience.

Step 1: Download, launch and open EdrawMax. Login or create a new account. Go to File > Templates and search for timelines. Pick a suitable timeline diagram to start your project.

edrawmax launching a timeline project

Step 2: Drag and drop symbols from the symbol libraries on the right-side panel that to the canvas. You can also insert icons, pictures, cliparts, containers, and various other objects to the canvas through the top navigation bar. Use lines or arrows to connect objects and establish connections.

add symbols to timeline

Step 3:  Customize the timeline's text, background, line, and shapes through the Design menu. or floating toolbars.

customze your timeline

Step 4: When you're done, export the timeline in your preferred format. Click File > Export and choose your preferred format like PDF, jpg, or Office formats.

export your timeline

Conclusion

Creating timelines on Google Slides offers an accessible way to craft presentations. Its seamless integration with other Google apps is an advantage. However, for a more professional and comprehensive diagramming experience, EdrawMax stands out.

Its abundance of templates, symbols, and icons ensures unlimited creativity. You can even export EdrawMax-made timelines for Google Slides. To elevate your timeline creations, consider exploring EdrawMax for its enhanced features. Begin your journey to creating engaging timelines today by harnessing the potential of EdrawMax – your ultimate tool for outstanding visual storytelling.

edrawmax logoEdrawMax Desktop
Simple alternative to Visio
210+ types of diagrams
10K+ free templates & 26k+ symbols
10+ AI diagram generators
10+ export formats
edrawmax logoEdrawMax Online
Edit diagrams anywhere, anytime
Personal cloud & Dropbox integration
Enterprise-level data security
Team management and collaboration

Zac Jenkins
Zac Jenkins Sep 20, 24
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