Overview #

There are many mapping and timeline tools available, and you should use the one you are most comfortable with. If you have no experience with mapping and timeline tools, this page includes tool recommendations and basic tips to help you get started.

Beginner-Friendly Tools #

These tools are easy to get started with but may lack some useful features the advanced tools offer. Most of these tools are free. Check out our guides to find out more:

• TimelineJS 
• StoryMapJS 
• PlacePress 
• Flourish

Advanced Tools #

Advanced mapping tools are usually discipline-specific and require subscription fees. Talk to your professor if you need help with tools not listed here.

Tips and Tricks #

1. Know how to begin setting up your map/timeline. 
   1. Google spreadsheet template for TimelineJS 
   2. Build a StoryMap (StoryMapJS)
2. Decide where you will post your map/timeline. Many of these tools must be embedded in a web page for viewing. It could be your WordPress or Omeka site, see our Website Building guides for more information on how to set those up.

Common Mistakes #

1. Embedding the link into an embed block instead of embedding it directly into the page/post. The embed block on WordPress can accept code/URL links. However, for map/timeline embed codes and links (especially JS ones), pasting the embed code into a Custom HTML block instead.
2. Copying the wrong link/embed code to use on your website. A lot of students accidentally copy the wrong link/ embed code onto their site. If your map/timeline does not appear correctly,
3. Using too many slides. Try to avoid using more than 20 slides to keep your projects organized.

Accessibility Considerations #

• Make sure to include an accessible font and font color, slide background, and make sure your map or timeline is sized correctly.
• Include media credit, content, and headlines. 
• Use alt-text / media captioning for all of your uploaded images and videos.

Examples #

• StoryMapJS of Life of Private Albert Schwarz
• Google MyMaps of Fredericksburg National Cemetery
• TimelineJS of WWII Events Internationally, Nationally, and Locally to Fredericksburg

Want More Help? #

• Book an appointment with a consultant at the DKC. We would love to help you with your Mapping/Timeline projects! 
• Check out our Mapping/Timeline Tool Guides

Reviewed by Abby Firestone 06/05/26