Timeline Tips and Tricks

A well-constructed timeline allows us to see the patterns and connections that matter and can help readers explore a topic through time and geography.

Timelines - General Tips

1. Create a clear narrative. The most effective timelines are those that provide a well-constructed narrative. Though presented in a visual form, timelines are much like any research paper or story; they work best when they have a good organizational structure and the order of the argument makes sense.

2. Incorporate a range of media. Images are only one way to ground your text. Charts, maps, primary documents, links to other sources, and video can give your project a more robust feel and provide your reader with further avenues to explore on the topic.

3. Reference external content. Timelines let you present a broad range of information. If there are authoritative sources (eg. Websites, journal articles) that cover the subject, consider linking directly to them. 

Resources