How to Create Flow Charts Using Auto Shapes in Microsoft Word 2003

Creating snappy and professional documents in the workplace using word processors is a task that has become increasingly easier to do as new versions of such software are released. Instead of users having to rely upon spreadsheet software applications to create flow charts that outline work-related numbers and variances, they can now use the flow charts drawing tool. This allows users to easily create fancy and detailed flow charts in just minutes.

Instructions

1. Make the drawing tool available. Click on “View” and then click on “Toolbars.” Click on the field labeled as “Drawing” to activate this tool and place it upon the command bar.

2. Choose an area of the document for placement. Click anywhere on the document that you want the flow chart to appear for placement.

3. Select the desired flow chart. Click on the “Autoshapes” field in the “Drawing” toolbar and select “Flowcharts” from the submenu that opens. A flowcharts selection menu will open. Click on the desired flowchart diagram icon to insert it into the document.

4. Size the flowchart. You can size the flowchart by clicking on any of the circular radials that surround it and dragging it to the desired size.

5. Move the flowchart. You can move the flowchart by hovering the mouse in the center until cross-sectioned arrows appear and then by clicking and dragging the flowchart.

Tips & Warnings

• Flow charts are great for outlining numbers and fields in a business setting.

• A flow chart can take up a lot of space inside of a document.