How to Create a Flowchart using SmartArt in PowerPoint

Last updated on November 23rd, 2024

In this tutorial, we’ll be creating a flowchart using SmartArt in PowerPoint. These shapes are very stylized versions of normal shapes available in PowerPoint to make a collective of shapes for different purposes. If you refer to our prior tutorial on creating flowcharts, you’ll find the same procedures apply here.

Before starting, have your data mapped out how you want it to appear in your PowerPoint flowchart. Simple shapes will work if you plot ahead on paper or in a program such as Paint. Below is a plotting map for the flowchart using PowerPoint’s basic shapes for example purposes. This can be done on paper or whatever program you wish.

Flowchart using SmartArt in PowerPoint
PowerPoint SmartArt Flow Chart

Once you’ve done that, move to PowerPoint and click on Insert and then SmartArt.

Example of flow chart SmartArt graphic in PowerPoint

You can use whatever shapes you wish to use for your SmartArt flowchart, we’re focusing on a simple flowchart. For this we used a Vertical Chevron List which is located under Process to start.

Example of vertical flow chart graphic in PowerPoint
Example of vertical flow chart graphic in PowerPoint

The collective of SmartArt can be re-sized and edited how you wish. You can leave it in one piece or take parts. Here we edited the shape to use one chevron and a text box.

Flow chart PPT template

Next, with the shape selected, click on Design.

flow chart powerpoint background

Here you can further edit the overall piece of SmartArt. Coloring, adding effects, etc. can be done with Format as normal or by selecting the shape, right clicking, and going down to Format. Above you will see Convert pointed out under Design. This will allow you to convert the SmartArt to a regular shape or just text.

Before continuing you can resize and move your shape in place as you wish and continue adding shapes in the structure of you want for your flowchart then add your text as desired or you can add shapes and handle text as you advance through the SmartArt flowchart.

Example of complex Flowchart in PowerPoint
Example of complex Flowchart in PowerPoint

The completed flowchart in our example (pictured above) will resemble the plotting map only filled out.

flow chart template

Remember, you can make a flowchart in PowerPoint as simple and straightforward as you like (such as the example) or complex with many steps and branches. Re-size your SmartArt and shapes accordingly.

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