How to Create Flow Charts in Word

Flow charts are good visual tools. You can use one to display functions, such as how a system operates or how a business's accounting procedures work. A flow chart can present a process, progression or structure with easily readable pictures and a minimal amount of text. For instance, you can create a flow chart to show your organization's supervisory structure so employees can know at a glance who reports to whom. Using Microsoft Word, you can create an effective flow chart in a short amount of time.

Instructions

1. 

   Open a new blank Word document. If you are using Word 2003 or earlier, click "AutoShapes" on the "Drawing" toolbar. In Word 2007, go to the "Insert" tab of the ribbon and click on "Shapes."

2. 

   Point to "Flowchart" in Word 2003 and click on the first shape that you want in your flow chart. In Word 2007, click the shape you want to use in the "Flowchart" section of the "Shapes" dropdown gallery.

3. 

   Click on the blank page where you want to apply the first shape. Drag the shape into the size you require. Choose and apply more shapes onto the page until you have all of the shapes you need for your flow chart.

4. 

   Add connectors between the shapes to show your flow. Go back to the "AutoShapes" menu in the Word 2003 "Drawing" toolbar, or the "Shapes" dropdown in Word 2007. Click on a connector, line or arrow and apply it to the page between the first and second shape. Repeat with the remaining shapes, connecting all of the required shapes to show the process flow.

5. 

   Add color to your flow chart shapes. Click on the shape to select it, right-click and choose "Format Shape." Choose the color or fill effect you want to use.

6. 

   Right click the first shape and click on "Add Text." Type the text you want in the first box and press "Enter." Repeat with the remaining shapes. Save your flow chart and print it out if desired.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't find the "Drawing" toolbar in Word 2003, go to the "View" menu and point to "Toolbars." Click "Drawing" and the "Drawing" toolbar will appear at the bottom of the Window.

Resources

• Flow Chart Templates