Quick Decision Tree in PowerPoint
9 minutes read
Make a visually compelling and persuasive decision tree PowerPoint slide by starting with a template.
This tutorial shows, step by step, how to create a decision tree in PowerPoint using simple techniques. No design skills or expensive software required!
To make a visually appealing decision tree PowerPoint slide, start with a mind map template.
With PowerPoint templates, you can visualize anything without starting from scratch. Your creativity is the only limit to where you can take a PowerPoint template. The templates are easy to customize, resulting in a professional-looking outcome.
In this article, I’ll be customizing a mindmap template from Envato Elements. We’ll create a simple PowerPoint decision tree.
How to Quickly Make Decision Tree Graphics in PowerPoint With Templates (Video)
In this video, you’ll learn how to make a decision tree graphic using a PowerPoint template. With a pre-designed PowerPoint slide, you can add the details of your decision tree in less time than it would take to build a new decision tree.
If you want to learn more about using decision trees in your presentation, keep reading the tutorial for more information.
What Is a Decision Tree?
A decision tree helps you visualize decision points and the alternatives to consider. It allows you to see the implications of each choice.
A decision tree is a diagram that starts with a root node, where outgoing branches feed into internal or decision nodes. This helps users visualize decisions and their potential consequences.
Components of a Decision Tree
A decision tree consists of two basic parts:
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Nodes contain ideas, assumptions, or facts. Different shapes can represent each of these, such as:
- Square or rectangle nodes hold a question, criterion, or option.
- Circle nodes show uncertainties, such as probabilities.
- Triangle nodes denote stopping or endpoints.
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Branches connect nodes to one another.
You may want to include a decision tree in your presentation for several reasons:
- To think through a decision and weigh the pros and cons of various options.
- To provide the rationale for your proposed course of action and garner support.
You get to decide what your decision tree will look like. Follow the convention or get as creative as you like, depending on your goals and your audience.
Keep reading to find out how to create a decision tree in PowerPoint using a slide template. I’ll use the Expected Value of each option to illustrate why one choice is clearly better than the others.
Note: The figures in the decision tree I’m creating are fictional data for a fictitious company.
How to Customize a Slide Layout to Create a Decision Tree in PowerPoint
I’m using the Mindmap PowerPoint Template, which I downloaded from Envato Elements.
I chose this template because it offers numerous mindmap slide templates, which closely resemble the decision tree I want to create. Depending on your needs, you might also consider decision tree templates that include flowcharts, org charts, and timelines. These can also serve as a basis for decision tree diagrams.
With that in mind, let’s create a decision tree in PowerPoint.
Steps to Create a Decision Tree in PowerPoint
1. Draw the Decision Tree on Paper
Let’s create a decision tree PowerPoint slide for a fictional case: Should Acme company set aside $25,000 of its advertising budget on Facebook ads or a trade show?
The first step is to sketch a rough version on paper. It’s much easier to make corrections on paper than on the actual PowerPoint slide, so don’t skip this step. Your initial drawing doesn’t have to include specific design details; just ensure you have all the necessary information for your decision tree.
This sketch will also help when you select a PowerPoint template. Here’s what my rough sketch looks like:
Note: The screenshots that follow are based on Microsoft PowerPoint for Mac version 16.26. If you have a different version of PowerPoint, your interface and workflow may vary slightly.
2. Choose & Download a MindMap Template
Find a PowerPoint template with a diagram that closely resembles your sketch. This will make your work easier by reducing the amount of customization needed.
Envato Elements allows you to download as many PowerPoint templates as you want. Browse through to find one that fits your desired format and style.
Once you have downloaded the best diagram template for your decision tree, make a copy of it before editing. This way, you can revert to the original settings if needed or use the template for future projects without redownloading.
If you forget to copy the template, don’t worry. Envato Elements allows unlimited downloads of decision tree templates at no extra cost.
3. Format the Nodes & Branches
After copying the mindmap template, you’re ready to customize it to create your decision tree.
Start building the decision tree from the main node, moving outward to the stopping points. I’ll begin with Option 1, Facebook ads, so I can easily copy it later to represent Option 2.
As a tip, try to copy existing objects on the slide template instead of inserting new ones from scratch. This simplifies the process, maintains the integrity of the template design, and helps you avoid mistakes.
1. Delete Unwanted Slide Objects
Since I only need the right half of the mindmap, I’ll delete the entire left part.
If the slide objects are grouped, you must first ungroup them by selecting the group and then choosing Arrange > Ungroup.
Now, delete everything on the left side of the large circle by clicking and dragging to select multiple objects, then right-clicking and selecting Cut.
Once the left side is cleared, select all remaining objects on the slide and drag them to the left to create space for the rest of the decision tree.
2. Add New Nodes and Branches
To create a new node, click Insert > Shapes > Oval.
Copy and paste the existing boxes and lines to create additional nodes and branches. Adjust their size or orientation as necessary to fit your decision tree. For instance, I need to flip the brackets I copied horizontally.
To flip an object, select it and then choose Arrange > Rotate > Flip Horizontal.
Repeat this process to insert a new shape; this time, add a triangle to represent the endpoint of Option 1. Now, the structure of Option 1 is complete!
4. Enter Your Information
Now, it’s time to add your information into the decision tree.
1. Add or Replace Text Inside Nodes
To replace placeholder text, double-click inside the text box and type your information.
To add text inside newly created shapes, copy and paste an existing text box, then drag it into a shape and type within it.
Use the remaining text boxes to create headers for “Expected Value,” “Total Expected Value,” “Best-Case,” and “Worst-Case.”
Copy the objects for Option 1 and paste them onto the node for Option 2. Replace the text with the information for Option 2.
The decision tree is almost complete!
5. Brand the Decision Tree Slide
Finally, it’s time to add company branding to the slide.
1. Change the Color Theme
To change the color theme of your decision tree slide, click Design. Then click the arrow under the color theme thumbnails, select Colors, and choose your preferred color theme.
Refer to the instructions for the PowerPoint template you downloaded for specific guidance on how to apply the color themes that accompany the template.
2. Insert the Company Logo
To add the company logo, click Insert > Pictures > Picture from File….
Locate the image file on your computer, click on its name, and then click Insert.
Drag the logo into place and click and drag from a corner of the image to resize it.
The decision tree is now complete!
5 Quick PowerPoint Decision Tree Slide Design Tips for 2024
Creating a tree diagram in PowerPoint helps explain the steps in a process. Ensure your graphic is clear and readable by embracing these five quick tips for effective tree diagram designs:
1. Try Unconventional Layouts
A PowerPoint decision tree should stand out. Utilize unique layouts to keep things interesting.
2. Ensure Alignment
For a polished look, make sure each element is aligned. PowerPoint provides tools to help align objects effortlessly.
3. Keep Slides Clean
Focus your audience on your ideas by keeping slides clean and avoiding unnecessary distractions.
4. Don’t Forget the Background
A stylish slide background can enhance a decision tree PPT by complementing the content. PowerPoint offers flexibility in adding custom backgrounds.
5. Be Specific
Select layouts that match your specific needs to effectively illustrate decisions. Premium templates can simplify this process significantly.
Common PowerPoint Questions Answered (FAQ)
Even after following this tutorial, you may have questions about creating a tree diagram in PowerPoint. Here are five common inquiries:
1. Does PowerPoint Support Animation?
Animation can enhance presentations when used thoughtfully. It allows for staged elements on your slide.
2. Can You Include Voiceover For Your PowerPoint Presentation?
Voiceovers can provide additional detail for complex ideas. Learn how to record narration for your slides.
3. Can You Print PowerPoint Presentations?
Want to show your tree diagram as handouts? Learn how to print in Microsoft PowerPoint efficiently.
4. What’s The Best Way to Share PowerPoint Decision Tree SmartArt?
Sharing presentations online is increasingly important. Discover how to share your PowerPoint decision tree SmartArt effectively.
5. What Devices Does PowerPoint Support?
PowerPoint’s online version allows you to build presentations without any apps other than a web browser.
More Decision Tree PowerPoint Templates (With Unlimited Downloads)
If you’re eager to create a decision tree using a PowerPoint template, explore the many options available at Envato Elements. Download an unlimited number of templates for PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Keynote for one low price.
These presentation templates can be easily customized for your decision tree needs.
Find the Right Decision Tree PowerPoint Template for You
Here are a few PowerPoint templates from Envato Elements that offer a variety of diagrams:
1. Organizational & Data Chart Presentation
This template includes numerous organizational and data chart templates that can be transformed into PowerPoint decision trees.
2. Mindmap Diagram PowerPoint Template
This template offers 20 mindmap diagrams perfect for building your PowerPoint decision tree with colorful and clean designs.
3. Mundo PowerPoint Template
Mundo features hand-designed flowcharts, mindmaps, and timelines suitable for decision trees, utilizing circles as the main shape.