How long does a body take to become a skeleton after burial?

The process of a body becoming a skeleton after burial can vary widely depending on several factors, including environmental conditions, soil type, and burial depth. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to several years for a body to decompose fully and leave behind a skeleton. In optimal conditions, such as warm temperatures and moist environments, decomposition occurs more rapidly, while cooler, drier conditions can slow the process significantly.