A timeline is a graphic representation used to show the time relationship between events. Timelines typically represent the historical progress of these events. You can also use timelines to plot a novel or show a time frame for accomplishing a task, such as starting a business. Using Microsoft Word, you can create visual timelines to represent any time frame for any subject you choose.
Instructions
1. Compile the information you will need for your timeline by date and event. You can write this information in a notebook or type it into the Word document in which you will create your timeline, then remove it when your timeline is finished. Having an outline of the information you will include in your timeline will save you time when you construct your timeline.
2. Open Microsoft Word and go to the "File" menu. Select the "Page Setup," choose "Orientation," and set the orientation to Landscape.
3. Select the "Drawing Tool" on the "View" menu. Choose the "Rectangle" drawing tool, and click and drag to draw a rectangle the length you will need for your timeline. You can drag the rectangle the length of your document and shorten it later if you don't need the full length.
4. Click on the line tool to draw vertical lines inside the rectangle to divide the sections of your timeline. You can change the color of the resulting sections by clicking the "Fill Color" icon. Having different colors for each section can help you identify the sections at a glance.
5. Add text beneath your timeline, under the appropriate section, or write inside the sections. Create the text by clicking the "Text Box" tool and dragging your mouse to create a text box. Examples of text you might type are specific historical periods followed by the appropriate dates.
6. Add a heading above your timeline to identify it. Use the "WordArt" tool to create the heading. Type the heading, then add a drop shadow and choose the text color. This will give your timeline an appealing appearance.
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