Create a Flow Chart Tutorial
Microsoft Word
Objective: To create a flow chart using Microsoft Word
Introduction: There are numerous educational topics and processes that can be introduced to students visually through the use of flow charts. Simple flow charts can be constructed with Microsoft Word tools on the drawing toolbar. Textboxes, autoshapes, arrows, and clip art can be easily integrated into a flow chart. Brackets and pairings used in a academic, musical, and athletic competitions can also be created using Microsoft Word tools.
Skill Practice: To create a flow chart using Microsoft Word
Step 1: Open 
, go to File > New, and choose 
.
Step 2: Go to View > Toolbars > Drawing. The Drawing Toolbar will appear on screen 
.
Step 3: To add shapes - Click on 
to have the AutoShape menu appear 
. From this menu, choose the shapes you want to use in the flow chart. When you choose a shape, the cursor will change to a "+". "Click and drag" your cursor in the document. The shape will appear. Release the mouse button when you reach desired shape size. "Sizing Handles" will appear around the shape. Use the sizing handles to adjust size and position of the shape.
Step 4: To add arrows or Lines - Click on 
, and choose the desired line type. "Click and drag" the cursor in the direction you want the line or arrow to point. Release the mouse button, and the arrow or line will appear. "Right click" on the arrow or line. A formatting menu will appear for adjusting size, color, position, and arrow style.
Step 5: To add clip art - Click on 
to add clip art from the Clip Art Gallery. Or, "surf" the web for uncopyrighted clip art to use in the flow chart.
Step 6: To add color - Use the paint tools 
to add color to autoshapes, lines, arrows, and textboxes.
Step 7: To add text to autoshapes - "Right" click on the autoshape's border. A formatting menu will appear. Choose the "add text" option. A blinking cursor will appear inside the autoshape where text will be added. Type in desired text. Choose Enter or Return when complete.
Step 8: To move shapes, arrows and lines - "Left" click on the autoshape or line. "Sizing handles" will appear on the shape or line. "Left" click and "drag" the shape or line to the desired position on the flow chart. Release the mouse button to finalize position.
Step 9: Additional formatting - "Right" click on the autoshape, arrow, or line. A menu will appear. Choose "format autoshape" - a formatting menu will appear with various formatting options, such as color, layout, and size.