How to Make a Dotted Line in a PowerPoint Org Chart

How to Make a Dotted Line in PowerPoint Org Chart

Updated on:

May 25, 2026

By:

Use this interactive demo to learn how to create a dotted line in a PowerPoint org chart.

Quick summary

A dotted line in a PowerPoint org chart visually represents indirect or advisory reporting relationships. You can create one in just a few clicks using the Shape Outline and Dashes formatting options.

Steps

Click directly on the specific line within the org chart that you want to change.
Go to the Format tab in the PowerPoint ribbon.
Click Shape Outline to open the outline formatting menu.
Hover over Dashes to expand the dash style options.
Select the Round Dot or Square Dot style to apply a dotted line.

📌 Why this matters

Adding a dotted line to a PowerPoint org chart lets teams clearly distinguish indirect reporting relationships and advisory roles from solid-line direct reports. This formatting technique is essential for HR professionals, managers, and consultants who need accurate, visually clear organizational charts. PowerPoint's built-in Shape Outline and Dashes tools make it simple to apply professional dotted-line formatting without third-party software. Mastering this skill ensures your org chart communicates complex structures at a glance.

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