There are several easy ways to create a timeline in Excel. You can use the built-in SmartArt feature to create a timeline graphic in a variety of styles. Or, select a premade timeline template if you’re making a more complex timeline. You can also add a timeline to a pivot table or create your own timeline from scratch.

Open a blank Excel worksheet. Click Insert tab > SmartArt > Process. Then select Basic Timeline from the Graphic options. You may also choose other graphics templates that suit your needs. Add data from the timeline (start date, milestones, end date, etc.) either in the provided text pane or directly on the timeline.

Open Excel to the sheet where you want your timeline. Go to the Insert tab, click the "Illustrations" drop-down arrow, and pick "SmartArt." When the Choose a SmartArt Graphic window opens, select "Process" on the left. On the right, find and select the Basic Timeline, then click "OK."

Here’s how you can create an Excel timeline chart using SmartArt. Click on the Insert tab on the overhead task pane Select Insert a SmartArt Graphic tool Under this, choose the Process option Find the Basic Timeline chart type and click on it Edit the text in the text pane to reflect your project timeline