How to Create and Insert a Pyramid in Microsoft PowerPoint

Adding a pyramid diagram to your Microsoft PowerPoint presentations can be an effective way to visualize hierarchical relationships and data. Pyramids are especially useful for showing proportional relationships, with the width of each layer representing the relative size of that data point.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to easily create and insert pyramid diagrams into PowerPoint slides using the built-in SmartArt tools.

Step 1: Insert a Pyramid SmartArt Graphic

To add a pyramid diagram to your presentation:

1. Open the PowerPoint presentation you want to add the pyramid to.
2. Select the slide you want to add the pyramid diagram to.
3. Go to the Insert tab on the ribbon.
4. Click the SmartArt button in the Illustrations group.
5. In the Choose a SmartArt Graphic window that opens, select the Hierarchy category on the left.
6. Scroll down and click to select the pyramid layout you want to use, such as the Basic Pyramid.
7. Click OK to insert the pyramid diagram onto your slide.

You should now have an editable pyramid diagram inserted into your presentation.

Pyramid smartart

Step 2: Customize the Pyramid Layers

Once your pyramid is inserted, you can customize the text and appearance of each layer:

1. Click inside the text box of one of the pyramid layers to edit the placeholder text.
2. Type in the text you want to display for that layer of the pyramid.
3. Repeat this process for each layer of the pyramid diagram.
4. To change the height of the layers, click and drag the sizing handles on the sides of each layer shape.
5. To modify the color, right click the border of a layer and select Format Shape to access fill, outline, and effect options.

Continue customizing the pyramid until you have added all the necessary text and set the desired formatting.

Edit pyramid layers

Step 3: Add Graphics and Images (Optional)

To spice up your pyramid diagram, you can include supporting graphics and images within the layers:

1. Insert any images you want to include onto the slide by going to the Insert tab and selecting Pictures.
2. Resize and position the image within one of the pyramid layers.
3. Right click the image and select Send to Back so the pyramid layer borders show in front.
4. Repeat this process to add more graphics and images as desired.

Graphics like icons, charts, and illustrations can help reinforce the meaning and messaging for each pyramid layer.

Pyramid with graphics

Step 4: Animate the Pyramid (Optional)

To make your pyramid diagram even more engaging, you can add some animation effects:

1. Select the pyramid diagram on the slide.
2. Go to the Animations tab on the ribbon.
3. Click the Add Animation button and select an entrance, emphasis, exit, or motion path effect.
4. Customize the animation with timing, triggers, and other options in the pane.
5. Preview the animations using the buttons at the top of the pane.

Experiment with different animation effects to make your pyramid diagram more dynamic and memorable.

Step 5: Present Your Pyramid Diagram

Once your pyramid is complete, save your presentation and prepare to present it to your audience!

As you present the slide, explain the meaning and importance of each layer, using the diagrams and graphics to reinforce your verbal messaging. The animated pyramid entrance can help grab attention as you transition into discussing the hierarchical relationships.

After following these steps, you should now have a professional pyramid diagram integrated seamlessly into your PowerPoint presentation. Pyramids provide a clear and structured way to break down complex ideas and data – use them strategically to visualize key information and engage your audience.