Video:Create a PowerPoint Flowchart

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Transcript:Create a PowerPoint Flowchart

Hi, I'm Don Schechter for About.com Computing. Today I'll show you how to create a flowchart in PowerPoint. This is a great tool to use in presentations in the classroom and the boardroom.

Choose a PowerPoint Flowchart Template

I will add a new slide for my flowchart and choose a layout that will accommodate an organizational chart. Click on the chart icon and a window will appear with six chart options. These types of charts are used to show different relationships. Click on a diagram, and a description of how it compares information is displayed below.

The Organization Flowchart

I will show you how to use a couple of them, starting with the organization chart. Click 'OK.' Click to add text in any of the places where it says to do so. A tool box will appear for whichever chart you are using so you can adjust the settings.

If you want to delete a box, just select it so it has little circles around it, and press the delete button - or just right-click and select 'delete.'

Enter the Flowchart Information

To add more information, first select the box you wish to have the information stem from. Then click 'Insert Shape.'

There is a drop-down menu where you can select 'Subordinate,' 'Co-Worker,' or 'Assistant.' 'Subordinate' is going to put a new text box beneath the one you have selected. The 'Co-Worker' box will add one on the same level and stemming from the same place as the box you have selected. The 'Assistant' stems off of the box you have selected and will connect to any 'Subordinates.'

Don't worry if your text doesn't fit neatly inside the text box. Just go to the chart toolbox and click 'Fit Text.' It will automatically adjust all the text to fit inside the boxes.

Adjust the Organization Flowchart Layout

Make sure the topmost box is selected and click on the layout button. A drop-down menu will appear, and you can choose different layouts. It helps to do this after all your information is entered into your chart.

Finally, click the Autoformat button on the toolbar to change the color and style of your chart.

The PowerPoint Cycle Flowchart

Now I'll show you how to use a cycle chart, which is another type of flowchart. Make a new slide and select a layout that will allow you to add an organizational chart. Now I will select the cycle chart.

Enter the Flowchart Information

Click to add text where it is appropriate. You can adjust the size and font of your text using the toolbar at the top like you would with Microsoft Word. Just highlight your text and make your changes.

If you want to add another arrow, click the Insert Shape button.

Adjust the Cycle Flowchart Layout

You can also move the shapes and their attached words around if you need to change the order. Click the Move Shape Forward or Backward buttons in the diagram toolbox.

You can reverse the direction by clicking the next button, Reverse Diagram.

The cycle diagram also has an AutoFormat button and you can change the style of your chart.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the Web at computing.about.com.