How to create a Timeline in Notion

[jrineakter]

Did you know that 70% of all sensory input comes from our eyes? Yes, we are programmed to learn visually

Imagine managing a project workflow without a clearly visualized timeline view – it’s chaotic, right?

In fact, most teams feel more confident about the correct intent of a project when the steps are clearly defined and organized, especially through a project timeline.

Notion is a great tool for creating to-do lists. However, it can also be used to visualize project timelines for project managers. Whether you need to view your project timeline in a table, calendar view, timeline view, or a simple Kanban-style board, Notion has you covered.

In this blog, you will learn how to make a timeline in your Notion account from start to finish.

Let's put those timelines into figures!

How to make a Timeline in Notion
Let's create a timeline in Notion that keeps your projects running smoothly.

Step 1: Open a blank page or an existing table
To begin your timeline journey, head to your Notion workspace.

You can start from scratch with afghanistan number data a new page by clicking the three-dot menu at the bottom, or if you're a pro with the slash command, type /timeline to directly insert a timeline view.

Notion offers you several database views, including list, board, gallery, calendar, timeline, and table view. If you already have another database view set up, simply change the view to timeline.

Creating and activating a timeline in Notion

Type /timeline in a new page to activate the timeline view in Notion_

Step 2: Add the timeline view
Once inside, click on the Timeline option. If you want, click on New Timeline to create a new database or link it to an existing one.

Select a new timeline in Notion

Select a new schedule to link to an existing database or create a new one

This is where the magic of organizing project tasks and phases and adding a suitable date property happens.

Step 3: Customize your timeline cards
Now you have a basic schedule!

A card represents each task or event, and this is where the fun begins: Click on any card to edit details such as task names, completion dates, and project progress.

Add cards to your timeline in Notion

Add cards to your timeline to link project-related tasks and events

Want to keep track of milestones or potential bottlenecks? Add relevant information and adjust date properties to stay on schedule.

Step 4: Adjust dates with drag and drop
It's time to play! Notion lets you drag cards in the calendar section to change task due dates.

While Notion Timeline lets you assign tasks to team members, it can fall short when it comes to allocating other vital resources like equipment and materials.

Unfortunately, you're still left with task tracking and project progress, but resource allocation will need the help of another tool.

So, if you hope to track resource utilization and time management, you'll need to manage it outside of your Notion workspace.

**Also read: Optimize your workflow with agile time tracking

2. Cost tracking? Not today
Notion can tell you if a task is 50% complete, but if you're wondering how much that 50% cost you, good luck!

The tool lacks cost management features, meaning there is no tracking of expenses related to staff, equipment or materials.

Even though you can see the progress of the project, you won't have a complete view of its impact on the budget.

3. The database dependency dilemma
To create a timeline in Notion, you first need to create databases, which may seem more like a data visualization tool than a full-fledged project management tool.

Sure, it gets the job done, but the limited functionality may leave you wanting something more efficient, like an all-in-one solution to manage the entire scope of your project.

**Also read 15 Best Notion Alternatives and Competitors

4. The critical path is MIA (missing in action)
The critical path is the sequence of tasks that, if delayed, will delay the entire project.

For those familiar with the critical path method (CPM), Notion's schedules may seem a little sparse.

Without CPM analysis, it is more difficult to determine which tasks should be prioritized to keep the project on track.

So if you're someone who likes to see the bigger picture and avoid project delays, you'll have to look elsewhere for that key visual representation.

**Also read How to solve common time management challenges

5. Data overflow and UI chaos
If you like toggling between multiple properties, be warned: Notion's timelines can sometimes feel like a cluttered UI with too many properties.

It's not very pleasing to the eye, especially when events are concentrated in a single day (hello, tiny dots). A "wrapping cells" option would be a dream come true.

If the timeline is shifting, just drag the edges of any card to adjust the length or time frame. Easy as pie.

Step 5: Resize and refine
Don't stop here You can adjust the timeline view to perfectly fit your project workflow.

Resize, rearrange, and use your own workspace to experiment with customization with Gantt chart-style layouts or a calendar view.