Free Gantt Chart Maker

How to make a Gantt chart in 5 steps

1. List the work. Start from your work breakdown structure. Each row should be a task someone can own and finish, ideally 1–10 days long.
2. Estimate durations. Use working days. If you are unsure, use the PERT estimator to turn optimistic, likely and pessimistic guesses into one number.
3. Link dependencies. In Depends on, type the row numbers that must finish first. The chart pushes start dates forward automatically.
4. Mark milestones. Zero-duration events such as "Design sign-off" or "Go-live" show as diamonds. They make status reports easy to read.
5. Track progress weekly. Update the % complete column. The weighted progress figure weights each task by its duration, so long tasks count more.

When a Gantt chart is the right tool

Gantt charts work best when the sequence of work matters: construction, events, product launches, migrations, regulatory deadlines, or any project with hand-offs between teams. For continuous-flow work with shifting priorities, a Kanban board is usually better. Many teams use both: a high-level Gantt for milestones and a board for day-to-day work.

Common Gantt chart mistakes

• Too much detail. 300 rows nobody updates helps no one. Keep the plan at a level you will actually maintain.
• Missing dependencies. Without links the chart is just a drawing. When one date slips, nothing else moves and the plan lies.
• No buffer. Find your critical path and protect it with contingency rather than padding every task.