Working with Shapes and SmartArt in MOS Word

Working with shapes and SmartArt in Microsoft Office Word (MOS Word) allows you to enhance your documents with visual elements that can convey complex information quickly and effectively. This webpage will guide you through the key concepts of using shapes and SmartArt, providing detailed explanations and practical examples.

Key Concepts

1. Shapes

Shapes are basic geometric forms that you can insert into your document to highlight key points, create diagrams, or simply add visual interest. Shapes can be customized in terms of color, size, and text.

2. SmartArt

SmartArt is a feature that allows you to create complex diagrams and flowcharts with minimal effort. It provides a variety of pre-designed layouts that you can customize to fit your specific needs.

Detailed Explanation

1. Inserting Shapes

To insert a shape in MOS Word:

1. Go to the "Insert" tab on the Ribbon.
2. Click on the "Shapes" button in the "Illustrations" group.
3. Select the shape you want to insert from the dropdown menu.
4. Click and drag in your document to draw the shape.

2. Customizing Shapes

To customize a shape:

1. Select the shape by clicking on it.
2. Use the "Shape Format" tab on the Ribbon to change its color, outline, size, and other properties.
3. To add text, right-click the shape and select "Add Text."

3. Inserting SmartArt

To insert SmartArt in MOS Word:

1. Go to the "Insert" tab on the Ribbon.
2. Click on the "SmartArt" button in the "Illustrations" group.
3. Select the type of SmartArt layout you want from the "Choose a SmartArt Graphic" dialog box.
4. Click "OK" to insert the SmartArt into your document.

4. Customizing SmartArt

To customize SmartArt:

1. Select the SmartArt by clicking on it.
2. Use the "SmartArt Tools" tabs on the Ribbon to change its color, style, and layout.
3. To add or remove elements, click on the SmartArt and use the buttons in the "Create Graphic" group.

Examples and Analogies

1. Shapes Example

Imagine you are creating a report and want to highlight a key finding. By inserting a shape such as a star or a circle, you can draw attention to the important information. For instance, you could use a yellow star to indicate a top recommendation.

2. SmartArt Analogy

Think of SmartArt as a pre-built Lego set. Instead of starting from scratch, you can choose a layout that fits your needs and customize it by adding or removing pieces. For example, a process diagram in SmartArt can quickly illustrate a series of steps in a workflow.

By mastering the use of shapes and SmartArt in MOS Word, you can create visually engaging documents that effectively communicate your message and enhance readability.