Weekly Computer Tip # 161
30 June 2006

resize an AutoShape to fit the text (Microsoft Word)

This week's tip is inspired by Penny Lindop who asked how to do what I described in tip 159 (adjusting text within an AutoShape using PowerPoint; see http://www.roem.co.uk/tip_159.html) in Word. She had a go using the PowerPoint instructions but came unstuck as it's quite a bit different.

First of all, in Word you cannot simply type text into the newly created AutoShape. Next, by default the text in the AutoShape will be wrapped and will nicely fit within the AutoShape. So what if you want to adjust the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the AutoShape to accommodate the text you entered?

Here's how:

1. Add an AutoShape as normal.
2. Point to the AutoShape and right-click the mouse button.
3. Select Add Text from the shortcut menu and type the required text.
4. Point to the AutoShape and right-click the mouse button.
5. Select Format AutoShape from the shortcut menu.
6. Click on the Text Box tab.
7. Click on "Resize AutoShape to fit text".
8. Click on the OK button.

That's it!

By the way, I told you that I do a sponsored walk for Children of Nepal, didn't I? OK, OK, I know that you know that I know. Still, the Dutch are known to be uninhibited, so I'll tell you again. You see, now that our local business editor put me in my clogs on the front page of last week's paper I'm getting donations left, right and centre. But the best one came last Friday. In the form of a stack of beautifully hand-made cards from the same Penny Lindop who inspired this week's tip. (Check out her website: http://www.pennylindop.com/) Thanks Penny! I've put the value of the cards in as sponsorship money! Oh, and thanks for the tip to wear thick socks.

Finally, today is the last day to benefit from an early bird discount for two of the four upcoming seminars: Boost PowerPoint beyond bullet points (20 September, morning only) and Excel with Excel (21 September). So don't miss out!! See http://www.roem.co.uk/seminars.html for further details.

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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