Plan Projects with PERT Charts

PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) is a project management tool that maps tasks as nodes connected by arrows showing dependencies. It uses three time estimates — optimistic, most likely, and pessimistic — to calculate expected duration and identify the critical path. Teams use PERT charts to plan complex projects, manage uncertainty, and protect deadlines.

A project network diagram is a visual representation of a project's tasks and their dependencies, showing the sequence in which work must be completed. PERT charts are one of the most common formats. They help project managers see the full scope of work, identify the longest path (critical path), and spot where delays could cascade.

Enter your tasks and their dependencies in the panel on the left, or describe your project to the AI and let it build the initial diagram. The tool automatically calculates expected times and highlights the critical path. Once you are happy with the layout, export as PNG or SVG or share via link.

The critical path is the longest sequence of dependent tasks from project start to finish. Any delay on a critical path task directly extends the project end date. MakeCharts highlights the critical path automatically so you can focus your risk management attention where it matters most.

A Gantt chart shows tasks on a timeline as horizontal bars — great for tracking progress over calendar time. A PERT chart focuses on task dependencies and time uncertainty, not calendar dates. PERT charts are better for planning and risk analysis; Gantt charts are better for day-to-day schedule tracking.

Yes. The core PERT chart maker is completely free with no sign-up required. You can create, customize, and download project network diagrams at no cost. Free AI credits are included so you can try the AI generation feature. Paid plans unlock more AI credits, file uploads, and advanced export options.

Each task takes an optimistic (O), most-likely (M), and pessimistic (P) duration. The expected time is calculated as (O + 4M + P) / 6 — the standard PERT formula. This approach accounts for uncertainty and gives a more realistic project duration than a single-point estimate.

Slack (also called float) is the amount of time a task can be delayed without delaying the overall project. Tasks on the critical path have zero slack. The MakeCharts PERT chart maker calculates and displays slack for every task so you can quickly identify scheduling flexibility.

Yes. Export your project network diagram as a high-resolution PNG or SVG file and drop it directly into PowerPoint, Google Slides, or any document. You can also share a direct link or use an embed code to display the chart on a website or project portal.

Yes. In addition to PERT charts, MakeCharts offers timelines, flow diagrams, org charts, mind maps, and 30+ other visualization types. You can build a complete project planning toolkit without switching tools.