How SmartArt in Microsoft 365 Transforms Your Lists

How SmartArt in Microsoft 365 Transforms Your Lists

If you're using Microsoft 365, you already have access to SmartArt, a simple way to turn plain bullet points into visuals that actually communicate. Here's how to use it in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

August 18, 2025

Have you ever sat through a presentation where slide after slide was just text and bullet points?

It’s a fast way to lose your audience.

Here's a Cool Tip:  Convert Bulleted Lists to SmartArt.

SmartArt is built into Microsoft 365 and lets you turn a list into a visual diagram in seconds. 

No design skills are needed. 

Just pick a layout, paste your list, and you're done. 

Whether you're teaching, presenting, or writing a report, SmartArt helps your message come across more clearly.

What You'll Gain

• Organize ideas visually without extra software
• Communicate structure and flow more clearly
• Save time with built-in formatting tools

What Is SmartArt and Why Should You Use It?

SmartArt is a feature in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel that lets you turn text into diagrams. 

You can choose from layouts like lists, cycles, pyramids, and hierarchies. 

It's not just decoration. It's a way to show how ideas connect.

If you've ever written a list and thought, "This needs more structure," SmartArt is your answer. 

It's especially useful for educators, business users, and anyone who wants to make their content easier to understand.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

Word (Microsoft 365 Desktop/Web)

1. Highlight your bullet list.
2. Press Ctrl+X to cut it.
3. Go to Insert > SmartArt.
4. Choose a layout from the List category.
5. Paste your list into the SmartArt text pane.
6. Use Tab and Shift+Tab to adjust hierarchy.

fig. 1 - Example of Bullets to SmartArt

PowerPoint (Microsoft 365 Desktop/Web)

1. Click the bullet list text box.
2. Go to the Home tab.
3. Click Convert to SmartArt.
4. Choose a layout.
5. Use SmartArt Design to change colors and styles.

Excel (Microsoft 365 Desktop/Web)

1. Open your Excel file.
2. Go to Insert > Illustrations > SmartArt.
3. Choose a layout.
4. Type or paste your list into the text pane.
5. Use the SmartArt Design tab to change colors, layout, or add shapes.

Pros and Cons

Pros: 

• SmartArt is fast, built-in, and works across Microsoft 365. 
• You don’t need to install anything or learn a new tool. 
• It’s great for turning lists into something more engaging.

Cons: 

• Layouts are limited. 
• If you want full control over design, you’ll need something more advanced. 
• SmartArt can feel repetitive if overused, so it’s best for short lists and clear structures.

Configuration Guide

• To customize SmartArt:
• Use the SmartArt Design tab to change layouts, colors, and styles.
• Use the Format tab to adjust fonts, shapes, and alignment.
• Add or remove shapes with the Add Shape button.

Feature Access

SmartArt is available in Microsoft 365 apps including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel on Windows, macOS, and the web

No extra installation required.

Score

Score | Criterion | Justification

Value: 9/10 

SmartArt helps users communicate more clearly with almost no effort. It’s especially useful for educators and business professionals.

Usability: 9/10 

It’s easy to find, simple to use, and doesn’t require training.

Wow Factor: 7/10 

It’s not flashy, but it’s a clever upgrade to everyday communication.

Total: 25/30 🌟 Excellent. Highly recommended for immediate use.

Key Takeaways

SmartArt is a built-in tool in Microsoft 365 that turns bullet points into diagrams. 

It’s fast, easy, and helps your audience understand your message better.

Try It Yourself

Next time you write a list in Word or PowerPoint, try converting it to SmartArt. 

Then share your results with your team. 

And if you liked this tip, subscribe to One Cool Tip for more.

READ MORE

• Turn Your Word Docs into Podcasts with Microsoft 365 Copilot
  
• Unlock Excel Compatibility Versions to Safeguard Your Formulas
  
• Word for the Web Gets Smarter: New Header & Footer Tools Save Time and Sanity
  

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!

Subscribe to the FREE OneCoolTip Newsletter.

Please Support OneCoolTip with TIPJAR!

Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

X: https://x.com/OneCoolTip    Threads:   https://www.threads.net/@onecooltip

Do you have a Cool Tip or question? Email us at onecooltip.com@gmail.com

Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

One Cool Tip

http://www.onecooltip.com

Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!

#SmartArt #Microsoft365 #OfficeTips #VisualCommunication #PowerPointDesign #TechForEducators @Microsoft365

#TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Copyright © 2008-2025 | www.OneCoolTip.com | All Rights Reserved