Can you make a Gantt chart in Excel?

Yes. Use a stacked bar chart with start dates and durations, then hide the start date series.

What data do I need for a Gantt chart?

At minimum, you need task names, start dates, and durations.

Yes — edit labels, categories, and rates. Avoid deleting entire rows that feed summary formulas; insert rows inside the data block instead.

A formula still points to a deleted cell. Use Find for #REF! or trace precedents from the summary cell to rebuild the reference.

Templates - 2026-05-12

Build a Gantt chart in Excel using task names, start dates, durations, stacked bar charts, dependencies, and project timeline formatting.

A Gantt chart shows project tasks across time. It helps teams see start dates, durations, overlaps, deadlines, and schedule risk. You need: Task name Start date Duration Optional owner Optional status

Set up columns for Task, Start Date, Duration, and Status. Duration can be calculated as: \\\ =EndDate-StartDate \\\

Insert a stacked bar chart using Start Date and Duration. Then format the Start Date series with no fill. This leaves only the duration bars visible. Sort tasks by start date so the timeline is easier to read.

Use a helper column or separate series for statuses like Not Started, In Progress, Blocked, and Complete. Keep the color system simple.

How to Sort in Excel Excel Date Formulas Excel Charts Guide Conditional Formatting in Excel

Read the Features and FAQs on the template page before changing formulas. Keep a backup tab with the original layout. Link totals to SUMIFS or XLOOKUP when your data lives on another sheet. Browse: Free Excel templates

Can you make a Gantt chart in Excel? Yes. Use a stacked bar chart with start dates and durations, then hide the start date series.
What data do I need for a Gantt chart? At minimum, you need task names, start dates, and durations.
Can I customize this template for my business? Yes — edit labels, categories, and rates. Avoid deleting entire rows that feed summary formulas; insert rows inside the data block instead.
How do I fix #REF! after editing a template? A formula still points to a deleted cell. Use Find for #REF! or trace precedents from the summary cell to rebuild the reference.