SmartArt graphics are a powerful feature in Microsoft Word that allow users to create visually appealing diagrams, flowcharts, and organizational charts effortlessly. However, sometimes the default size of SmartArt may not fit perfectly within your document layout or design preferences. Knowing how to resize SmartArt effectively ensures your visuals are clear, proportionate, and integrated seamlessly into your document. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to resize SmartArt in Microsoft Word efficiently and explore additional tips to customize your SmartArt to suit your needs.
How Do I Resize Smartart in Microsoft Word?
Resizing SmartArt in Microsoft Word is a straightforward process. You can resize SmartArt either by dragging its borders or through specific sizing options. Here are the primary methods to resize your SmartArt graphic:
1. Using Drag and Drop
- Click on your SmartArt graphic to select it. Once selected, you'll see a border with small circles or squares around the perimeter.
- Move your cursor to one of the corner handles (small circles or squares at the corners). The cursor will change to a diagonal double arrow.
- Click and hold the mouse button, then drag inward to make the SmartArt smaller or outward to enlarge it. Dragging from the sides will resize proportionally or non-proportionally depending on the handle you choose.
- Release the mouse button once you've reached the desired size.
Note: To maintain the aspect ratio while resizing, hold down the Shift key while dragging a corner handle.
2. Using the Size Group in the Ribbon
You can also resize SmartArt precisely through the Size group in the Format tab:
- Select your SmartArt graphic.
- Navigate to the Format tab on the Ribbon (which appears when SmartArt is selected).
- In the Size group, you will find options to specify exact height and width values.
- Enter your preferred dimensions into the Height and Width boxes. Press Enter after typing to apply the new size.
Tip: Make sure the Lock aspect ratio checkbox is checked if you want to keep the proportions consistent when resizing.
3. Resizing SmartArt Using the Context Menu
Another way to resize is through the right-click context menu:
- Right-click on your SmartArt graphic.
- Select Size and Position from the context menu.
- In the dialog box, you can manually input the desired height and width values.
- Ensure the Lock aspect ratio box is checked for proportional resizing.
- Click OK to apply the changes.
4. Resizing Multiple SmartArt Graphics
If you need to resize multiple SmartArt graphics to the same dimensions:
- Select the first SmartArt graphic, then hold down Ctrl and click on other SmartArt graphics to select them all.
- Use any of the resizing methods above to adjust their size simultaneously.
Additional Tips for Customizing SmartArt Size and Layout
Resizing SmartArt is just one aspect of customizing your graphics. Here are some additional tips to enhance your SmartArt's appearance and fit within your document:
1. Changing the Layout to Fit Your Size
If resizing isn't sufficient, consider changing the SmartArt layout to better suit your content and size:
- Select your SmartArt graphic.
- Go to the Design tab under SmartArt Tools.
- Click on the Layout dropdown in the Layout group.
- Select a layout that better fits your desired size and shape.
2. Adjusting Text and Shapes for Better Fit
Sometimes, resizing SmartArt also requires adjusting the internal elements:
- Click on individual shapes within the SmartArt to resize or reposition text boxes.
- Use the Text Pane (accessible via the SmartArt Tools) to add or remove text, which can affect the overall size.
3. Using the Format Pane for Precise Control
The Format Pane provides detailed options for size and positioning:
- Right-click the SmartArt and select Format Shape.
- In the Format Pane, navigate to the Size & Properties section.
- You can precisely set the height, width, and position for your SmartArt.
4. Maintaining Consistent Sizes in a Document
To ensure uniformity across multiple SmartArt graphics:
- Resize one SmartArt graphic to your preferred size.
- Copy and paste it where needed, then delete the original if desired.
- Alternatively, manually set the size of each SmartArt to match using the size options.
Summary of Key Points
Resizing SmartArt in Microsoft Word is a versatile process that can be achieved through simple drag-and-drop, precise measurements in the Ribbon, or through context menu options. Remember to hold the Shift key during dragging to maintain proportions, and utilize the Format tab and Size dialog box for exact dimensions. Customizing your SmartArt's size ensures it aligns perfectly with your document's layout and enhances visual clarity. Whether adjusting a single graphic or multiple SmartArts for consistency, these methods give you full control over your visual presentations in Word. With these tips, you can create professional, well-fitted diagrams that elevate your documents to the next level.