Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to start a construction schedule with a free template in Excel

Whether you're creating your construction schedule from scratch or using a construction schedule template for Excel like our free Gantt chart template, it’s only going to be as good as the information you enter into it. 

It’s important for you to understand what information should be included to create a construction schedule template in Excel ahead of time. If you’re not sure, or just need a refresher, you can check out our article on how to create a construction schedule and 4 things to know before using a construction schedule template, which cover everything you need to know. 

Once you have everything you need you’re on your way to getting your construction schedule created … but how do you actually create it? We’ll show you how to get started in Excel with step-by-step instructions and images below.

Getting your construction schedule started in Excel

Building your construction schedule in Excel is a combination of spreadsheet know-how and construction knowledge. You likely have the latter covered, so here are the steps to help you start creating a schedule template in Excel:

1. Open Excel
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2. Click the “File” Tab
   

3. Select “New”
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4. Scroll down until you find the Excel templates called “Gantt project planner," “Agile Gantt chart,” and “Project timelines”
   

5. On the template screen you can also search “Schedules." Scroll down to the bottom and you will find a “Simple Gantt chart.”

6. Click on which template you’d like to use to open the file. 
   

From here, you’ll just fill in your project data and tasks and make any design changes that you need to make. 

How to create project timeline graphics in your construction scheduling template in Excel?

With your construction schedule template complete with data, you can show selected tasks or project milestones in Excel using a SmartArt graphic timeline. Even after you create the timeline it allows you to add events and change layouts and styles, so feel free to get creative.

1. Open a new tab at the bottom of your worksheet by clicking on the + sign.
   

2. Click “Insert” from your open template, then click “SmartArt.” 
   

3. Choose “Process” from the side menu and pick whichever timeline graphic you want to use. Finish by clicking “ok.”
   

4. To edit the graphic, just click inside the text box to add your data. You can also change the timeline graphic by selecting a different Layout in the at the top menu. 
   

5. Once you’re done, you can highlight the graphic to copy and paste it in your main construction schedule in Excel or elsewhere. 
   

If you don’t like any of the schedule templates that Excel has to offer, download our free construction Gantt chart. It’s easy-to-use and created by builders just like you.

Prefer to use Google Sheets? Then check out our article on how to create a construction schedule template in Google Sheets.