Project management templates are vital for replicating success and streamlining workflows. Leverage these free Microsoft Excel templates to convert simple spreadsheets into powerful project tracking tools.
In this expert guide, explore the most practical free Excel project management and tracking templates, curated for your next project based on proven tools from Microsoft and trusted sources.
In this article:
Discover the top native Microsoft Excel project management templates, including built-in options and integrations from Vertex42, a leading spreadsheet resource.
Note: This covers native and third-party templates. To access pre-installed ones, open Excel, search keywords on the New screen, or go to File > New. See the Managing section below for details.
Excel provides robust timeline and Gantt chart templates from Microsoft, enhanced by Vertex42 options.
The Work Plan Timeline template suits basic multi-phase projects. Enter data in the worksheet, and the roadmap updates automatically.
Pre-installed in Microsoft Excel 2016 and later.
Gantt charts visualize task flows and progress effectively. This template lets you build a full chart effortlessly: input tasks, descriptions, assignees, progress percentages, start dates, and durations.
A default Microsoft Excel template.
Vertex42's template merges Gantt-style task visualization with prominent milestones. Fill the tables to generate the timeline.
Available via Excel search.
For straightforward projects, an Excel project plan suffices over complex documents.
This Vertex42 Gantt variation from Excel's repository highlights project phases alongside tasks.
Included in Microsoft Excel.
For simple projects like events, this one-page template from Office Templates Online tracks tasks, timelines, and budgets.
Search for "tracker" to uncover versatile business and personal templates; filter by project categories.
Track direct, indirect, general, and administrative product costs comprehensively.
Vertex42's multi-client template consolidates project details, expenses, task statuses, and deadlines.
Browse Excel's Business Plans category via suggested searches.
Key templates include:
Need more? Explore these trusted sites for expanded Excel templates.
Vertex42 offers scheduling-focused templates for Office 2003+. Ideal for timelines, budgets, and critical path analysis.
TidyForm features popular categories like Gantt charts, proposals, and work breakdown structures. Use search or Business section.
For custom needs, learn to build your own Excel templates.
Access templates in Excel 2016/2013/2019 similarly.
Start Excel or go to File > New for the template view and search.
Pre-installed templates appear below search; pin favorites.
Search terms like "project" show matches and categories.
Filter by multiple categories for precision.
Previews include descriptions; pin or click Create to load.
Explore more office templates, business letters, and tools like Outlook or OneNote for projects. Always begin with a Work Breakdown Structure for organization.
