Insert Shapes in PowerPoint 2003 and 2002 for Windows

Several slide objects such as pictures, clip art, multimedia, and AutoShapes can be inserted into PowerPoint slides so as to help convey your message better. However, most of these objects are inserted elements sourced from outside PowerPoint. AutoShapes differ since they are built right inside PowerPoint. In this tutorial, you'll learn how you can insert an AutoShape into a PowerPoint slide.

1. In a new or existing presentation, insert a new slide (Ctrl + M). It’s a good idea to change the slide layout—do that by choosing the Format | Slide Layout option. In the resulting task pane, select the Blank layout, as shown in Figure 1, below.
2. 
   Figure 1: Blank new slide
2. Access the Drawing toolbar typically located at the bottom of the PowerPoint interface. Click on the AutoShapes button on this toolbar, as shown in Figure 2, below.
3. 
   Figure 2: Access AutoShapes from the Drawing toolbar

Missing Drawing Toolbar?

If the Drawing toolbar is not visible, choose View | Toolbars | Drawing.
4. As shown in Figure 2, above, PowerPoint places AutoShapes into categories such as Basic Shapes, Block Arrows, Stars and Banners, Callouts, etc.
3. Now choose any category submenu, and then select an individual AutoShape from the resulting flyout menu by clicking on it. Thereafter use any of these two options to place the AutoShape on your slide:

1. Click to place

4. Click anywhere on the slide to add the AutoShape in a predefined size (typically 1 inch x 1 inch), as shown in Figure 3, below.

2. Click and drag to place

5. Click and drag on the slide to create an instance of the AutoShape in the size you desire.
6. 
   Figure 3: AutoShape in Slide Area

Use the Shift and Ctrl Modifier Keys

Hold the Shift key while dragging to constrain the height and width proportions. Hold the Ctrl key to draw an AutoShape from the center. You can also draw while holding both the Ctrl and Shift keys.


PowerPoint Keyboard Shortcuts

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