Video:How to Create a PowerPoint Family Tree

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Transcript:How to Create a PowerPoint Family Tree

Hi, I'm Don Schechter for About.com Computing.

Today I'll show you how to create a family tree using PowerPoint. This can be something fun to do for family reunions and you can use the skills you learn to make other kinds of organizational charts.

Choosing Chart Type

First open PowerPoint. Type in a title slide and then add a new slide. Now under the Slide Layout sidebar on the right, choose a layout that will allow an organization chart. The icon looks like this. Click it and choose the organization chart option. Click OK. A chart will appear along with the organization chart toolbox.

Starting your Family Tree

In the top most box, type the name of whomever you would like to start your family tree. Now click Insert Shape in the toolbox and choose assistant for the person to whom they are married. If they have children write their names in the boxes below.

Adding Family Members

To add a box, simply select the box next to where you'd like to add one and click Insert Shape and choose Subordinate.

Undo

To delete a box, select it and press Delete.

Extra Slides

To continue the family line you might need to create another slide and follow the previous steps.

For example you could have a slide for every sibling s family. To add a box quickly right click on the box from which you would like it to stem from and choose Subordinate, Assistant or Co-worker. These are just names for how the boxes are connected. Subordinate would be someone's child. Assistant would be someone who married into the family, and Co-worker would be someone s brother or sister.

Family Tree Layout

On the organization toolbar, you can change the layout of the boxes. Select the topmost box and under the Layout drop down menu select a layout. You can also place the boxes where you would like by switching off the Auto Layout. Simply select the topmost box and under the Layout drop down menu select Auto Layout.

Text Sizing

The Fit Text button on the toolbar will make sure that all your text will fit within the boxes.

Custom Design

Finally, choose a background for your family tree slideshow by clicking the design button at the toolbar on the top of the screen. Design Templates will appear on the right sidebar. Choose one that suits your taste.

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