Visual timeline examples

Shorthand makes it easy to build immersive visual timelines for the web without writing code or working with complex libraries like TimelineJS. Instead of configuring embeds or managing data sources, you can focus on shaping the story — structuring events, adding context, and bringing each moment to life with rich media.

Because timelines in Shorthand live inside a complete scrolling story, they feel more natural and engaging than standalone timeline widgets. You can combine chronology with longform narrative, imagery, video, and maps in a responsive, web-native format that’s designed to be read — not just clicked through.

A visual timeline presents key moments in chronological order — using narrative, design, and media to help readers follow what happened, when, and why it matters.

Timelines make it easier for readers to understand what happened and how events connect. They reduce cognitive load, keep readers oriented, and encourage deeper engagement with long or complex stories.

Yes. Shorthand includes free, ready-to-use templates that make it easy to start building a visual timeline. They’re designed for web storytelling and give you a strong structure you can customise for your own content.

Sign up for a free account to explore the available templates, with no payment required until you’re ready to publish.

Yes. You can bring each moment to life with visuals and multimedia — including images, video, audio, maps, charts, and embeds — so readers can explore context as they scroll.

Any story where sequence matters. Common use cases include investigations and explainers, company milestones, project retrospectives, biographies, product evolution, and trend reporting.

Absolutely. You can tailor layout, typography, colour, and media to match your brand — and shape the pacing of the story so the timeline feels intentional and easy to follow.

Yes. Shorthand stories are responsive by default, so timelines work smoothly across desktop, tablet, and mobile.

To get started, sign up for Shorthand and create a new story. Inside the app, you’ll find free, ready-to-use templates that make it easy to build your first visual timeline — then customise it with your own content, media, and structure.