Weekly Computer Tip # 159
16 June 2006

adjusting text within an AutoShape (Microsoft PowerPoint)

This week's tip is a sneak preview of one of the tricks I will demonstrate during next Tuesday's seminar on how to Boost PowerPoint beyond bullet points.

You probably know that if you want to enter text in, say, a circle or a square you simply type the text in the selected AutoShape. But what if the text doesn't fit in your carefully designed AutoShape? (Remember how to draw a perfect square or circle? If not, have another look at tip # 144 - http://www.roem.co.uk/tip_144.html) What if your text goes beyond the edges of the circle or the square? Well, there is an easy way to adjust the AutoShape to fit the text. Or vice versa. Adjust the text to fit within the AutoShape.

Here's how:

1. Add an AutoShape as normal.
2. Make sure the AutoShape is selected and simply type the required text.
3. Point to the AutoShape and right-click the mouse button.
4. Select Format AutoShape from the shortcut menu.
5. Click on the Text Box tab.
6. Click on "Resize AutoShape to fit text" or "Word wrap text in AutoShape".
7. Click on the OK button.

Depending on what you chose the option adjusts the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the selected AutoShape to accommodate the text as entered. Or the text of the AutoShape will be wrapped so that it fits within the object as drawn.

Have a go. It's easier done than it might sound. Honest! And if you like what you see ... why not sign up for next week's seminar. I have one place left! See http://www.roem.co.uk/beyond_bullet_points.html for full details or drop me a line or give me a bell.

Finally, thanks for those of you who emailed to say you'd sponsor me to do the 5 mile walk in Peterborough for Children of Nepal. But before you dismiss this event in the fens with mothers with push chairs as a doddle, you need to know that one of my sponsors promised more money if I'd complete the walk wearing traditional Dutch footwear. Always in for a challenge I've dusted off my clogs and can assure you they are not comfy. At all!

Until next week.

PS I’m committed to sharing the best of what I know with others so please don’t keep me a secret. If you enjoyed today’s tip, please forward it to anyone you feel may benefit. Alternatively, feel free to reprint it (with full copyright and subscription information) in your newsletters and message boards.

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