Instructions for creating time bars in PowerPoint


In group projects or during quiet work phases, it can be a challenge to keep an eye on the remaining time. A visually appealing, continuous time bar in PowerPoint helps to maintain an overview and at the same time provides a clear structure. Especially in presentations, workshops or teaching units, such an animation can support time planning without the need to constantly check a clock.

We will show you how you can easily create a dynamic time bar yourself. With a suitable animation, it gradually gets smaller and shows the passage of time. Our detailed step-by-step instructions and a free template make it easy for you to implement.

You are welcome to use our ZML templates:

 

- Time bar in blue (pptx)

- Time bar in green (pptx)

- Time bar in black/white (pptx)

How to create your own time bar

  1. Select shape - A rectangle is best suited.
  2. Display several minutes - If you want to display several minutes, duplicate the rectangle accordingly.
  3. Add numbering - Number the elements backwards so that the "1" is at the end.
  4. Align - All elements should lie exactly on a line and be evenly distributed.
  5. Group rectangles - If the working time is longer than one minute, group the elements to animate them together.
  6. Add animation - In the Animations tab, select an output effect such as "Float out".
  7. Customize effect options - By default, the shape moves downwards. If desired, you can change the direction to "to the left".
  8. Set duration - Enter the desired time in seconds (e.g. 120 seconds for two minutes). The maximum duration is 10 minutes.
  9. Optimize time control - If you want the bar to run staggered over a longer period of time, set the start option to "After previous" for the following elements.

Additional template: Time circle as an alternative: If you prefer a clock display instead of a bar, you can use our ready-made time circle. Here, several circles are superimposed on top of each other and disappear one after the other - perfect for a vivid representation of time.

Download our free templates and test the function directly in your next presentation!