Quick Overview:
The [Shift] key is one of the easiest ways to work more precisely with shapes and objects in PowerPoint.
In this tutorial, you’ll learn three time-saving [Shift] key shortcuts for creating perfectly proportioned shapes, moving objects in a straight line, and rotating shapes and images in consistent increments.
Small keyboard shortcuts can make a big difference when you’re creating and editing PowerPoint slides. The [Shift] key is especially useful when working with shapes, images, and other objects because it gives you more control over how they are created, moved, and rotated.
Let’s look at three practical ways to put this simple shortcut to work. Or, watch this short video on these handy PowerPoint shortcuts:
Tip #1: Creating a Perfectly Proportioned Shape
In PowerPoint, hold down the [Shift] key when drawing a shape to create a perfectly proportioned circle, square, or another object.
To create a perfectly proportional shape in PowerPoint:
- In PowerPoint, move to the slide where you want to add the shape. Choose Insert > Shapes, and pick the shape you want to draw such as a rectangle, oval, or star.
- Click into the location on the slide where you want the shape.
- Next, press and hold down the [Shift] key while drawing the shape with your mouse. PowerPoint will “constrain” your drawing to an equally proportional shape.
- When you have the size you want, release the mouse and then release the [Shift] key.
Bonus Tip: And, here’s another PowerPoint shortcut to try. Hold down the [Shift] key to also draw perfectly straight lines, either horizontal, vertical, or at 45 degrees.
Tip #2: Keeping a Shape in Alignment When Moving
If you want to move an object, shape, or image on your slide, hold down [Shift] while using the mouse to drag the object. This ensures the object moves only along a horizontal or vertical axis. Pretty cool, huh?
Tip #3: Controlling Rotation
Although the rotation of a shape can be quite specific, there may be times when you want an easy rotation trick. To quickly rotate an object, hold down [Shift] while rotating (use the round arrow at the top of the selected object). This [Shift] trick lets you turn the shape or image in 15-degree increments.
Bonus Tip: For other rotation options, select the shape, choose the Shape Format tab, and then pick from the Rotate choices.
Which of these PowerPoint shortcuts will you try?
Were these PowerPoint tips helpful? Discover more PowerPoint techniques and shortcuts TheSoftwarePro.com/PowerPoint.
© Dawn Bjork, MCT, MOSE, CSP®, The Software Pro®
Microsoft Certified Trainer, Productivity Speaker, Certified Speaking Professional
