Excel Tips


Switch to the Format Tab to Format Individual Shapes »

January 8, 2024

Birds Eye Scene style notwithstanding, (see Figure 1469 above), I’ve found that most SmartArt formatted using the Design ribbon looks good. Fonts remain consistent throughout. Shapes have similar effects. While giving Microsoft control over font size will usually create a suitable graphic, sometimes I need to tweak the font used within one shape.


Format SmartArt »

January 4, 2024

SmartArt always starts out as a boring blue diagram. What formatting options are available?


Change a SmartArt Layout »

January 2, 2024

I typed my text in my SmartArt, but my manager doesn’t like the layout.


Use the Text Pane to Build SmartArt »

December 28, 2023

How do I create SmartArt?


Choose the Right Type of SmartArt »

December 25, 2023

I need to illustrate a circular process in which information can flow in both directions. Which SmartArt type should I use?


Draw Business Diagrams with Excel »

December 21, 2023

My manager needs me to graphically document the steps in a project plan.


Make a Logo into a Shape »

December 18, 2023

I’m looking for a fun way to kill some time while the Internet is down. Can I make my logo into a Shape that can be formatted using the Drawing Tools?


Create Dozens of Lightning Bolts »

December 14, 2023

I need to create multiple shapes. In the old Excel, I could double-click a shape icon and then draw multiple copies of the shape without going back to the menu. Now, I can’t seem to double-click the lightning bolt in the Shapes menu.


Rotate a Shape »

December 11, 2023

How do I rotate a shape? Can I morph a shape?