Creating a Flow Chart in Word 2008

Flow charts are an integral part of many documents. They can help readers understand processes or a chain of events. So, at some time or other, you will probably need to create a flow chart.

You can create a flow chart out of drawing elements in Word 2008. But, this is a time-consuming method of creating a flow chart. Also, the shapes and lines may not be perfect.

A better way to create a flow chart is to use Word 2008’s SmartArt Graphics feature. It will help you create and format flow charts and similar graphics.

To create a flow chart with Word’s SmartArt Graphics feature, follow these steps:

1. Click SmartArt Graphics at the top of the Word window

2. Use the buttons to select the type of graphic you would like to create

3. The graphic is inserted in your document on a drawing canvas

4. The Text Pane box will help you specify the text for your chart

5. You can also demote or promote certain elements. Simply select the portion to change. Then, click the Promote or Demote button

6. You can change the colors of elements in your graphic. Just select the object to format and right click it. Select Format Text or Format Shape, depending on the changes you’d like to make.

7. Use the handles on the drawing canvas to resize the overall graphics size or to move it to a different location in your document

8. You can delete a graphic by selecting it and pressing Delete.