How To Symmetrically Resize Graphics In Excel

Do you struggle to make your Excel graphics look aesthetically pleasing? Do you want to ensure your graphics are the same size? This article will help you learn how to quickly and easily symmetrically resize graphics in Excel.

Resizing Graphics in Excel

Resizing graphics in Excel is a useful skill for presenting data effectively. Here’s how to symmetrically resize graphics in Excel:

1. Select the graphic you want to resize.
2. Click the Format tab, then choose the Size group.
3. Click the dialog box launcher icon in the bottom-right corner of the Size group.
4. In the Format Picture pane, choose the Size & Properties icon, and then click the Lock aspect ratio checkbox to ensure the graphic is scaled proportionally.
5. Enter the desired height or width, and the graphic will resize symmetrically.

It’s worth noting that Excel’s scaling options, which allow you to resize graphics non-symmetrically, may be more appropriate in some cases.

Knowing how to take a picture in Excel, by the way, can be helpful in creating graphics to resize.

In a previous project, I needed to resize several graphics in an Excel report. After using the scaling options unsuccessfully, I discovered how to symmetrically resize the graphics using the above method. This not only made the report more visually appealing but also saved me time and frustration in the process.

Symmetrical Resizing

Symmetry in resizing graphics refers to maintaining proportional dimensions while resizing. Here’s a guide to help you resize graphics symmetrically in Excel.

1. Select the graphic you want to resize
2. Click on the format tab
3. In the size group, click on the dialog box launcher
4. In the Format Picture dialog box, go to the Size tab
5. Toggle on the Lock aspect ratio option to maintain symmetry

It’s important to note that this method works for both shapes and images.

Did you know that Excel can also take pictures? Use the camera tool to take snapshots of your data and incorporate them into your spreadsheets seamlessly.

Using the “Size and Properties” Option

Text: Using the “Size and Properties” option allows for symmetrical graphic resizing in Excel. Simply select the graphic and right-click to access the option. From here, adjust the height and width or lock the proportions. This method ensures that the graphic maintains its dimensions, avoiding any distortion.

Remember to always use this option when resizing graphics in Excel to ensure a consistent and professional appearance. According to Forbes, “Visual elements are processed faster and more efficiently by the brain than text, making them a powerful tool for communication and engagement.” So, taking the time to properly resize graphics can greatly enhance the effectiveness of your Excel presentations.

Symmetrical Resizing with Keyboard Shortcuts

Symmetrical resizing can be easily accomplished in Excel by using keyboard shortcuts. This technique allows you to resize graphics proportionally, so that they maintain their shape and do not get distorted. Here’s a 5-step guide to symmetrical resizing with keyboard shortcuts:

1. Select the graphic that you want to resize.
2. Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.
3. Use the mouse to drag one of the corners of the graphic inward or outward, depending on whether you want to make it smaller or larger.
4. Release the mouse button.
5. Release the Shift key.

This will resize the graphic symmetrically, preserving its aspect ratio.

When using this technique, it’s important to remember that you need to hold down the Shift key throughout the entire process in order to maintain symmetry. Additionally, if you want to resize the graphic to a specific size, you can use the Format Picture dialog box to enter precise width and height measurements.

Another helpful tip to keep in mind is that you can use the Ctrl + Z keyboard shortcut to undo any resizing that you don’t like. This allows you to experiment with different sizes until you find the perfect one.

FAQs about How To Symmetrically Resize Graphics In Excel

How to symmetrically resize graphics in Excel?

Resizing graphics in Excel can be a bit tricky because it may lead to distortion or uneven resizing. But, using the following steps, you can symmetrically resize graphics in Excel with ease:

1. Click on the graphic you want to resize
2. Press and hold the Shift key on the keyboard
3. Click and drag the corner handles of the graphic inward or outward to resize it symmetrically
4. Release the Shift key once you are done resizing

Can I resize multiple graphics simultaneously in Excel?

Yes, you can resize multiple graphics simultaneously in Excel, by following these steps:

1. Select all the graphics that you want to resize
2. Press and hold the Shift key on the keyboard
3. Click and drag the corner handles of any one of the selected graphics inward or outward to resize all graphics symmetrically
4. Release the Shift key once you are done resizing

How do I maintain the aspect ratio of the graphics when resizing in Excel?

To maintain the aspect ratio of the graphics when resizing in Excel, follow these steps:

1. Click on the graphic you want to resize.
2. Press and hold the Shift key on the keyboard.
3. Click and drag the corner handles of the graphic inward or outward to resize it symmetrically.
4. Release the Shift key once you are done resizing.

Excel automatically maintains the aspect ratio of the graphic while resizing it symmetrically if the Shift key is being held.

Can I resize graphics proportionally in Excel?

Yes, you can resize graphics proportionally in Excel by following these steps:

1. Click on the graphic you want to resize.
2. Press and hold the Shift key on the keyboard.
3. Click and drag the corner handles of the graphic inward or outward to resize it symmetrically.
4. Release the Shift key once you are done resizing.

This method will proportionally resize the graphic along both the horizontal and vertical directions.

Can I adjust the size of a graphic by exact dimensions in Excel?

Yes, you can adjust the size of a graphic by exact dimensions in Excel by following these steps:

1. Click on the graphic you want to adjust.
2. Click on the Format tab from the Ribbon toolbar.
3. In the Size group, specify the values for Height and Width.
4. Press Enter to apply the changes.

Can I resize graphics in Excel from the keyboard?

Yes, you can resize graphics in Excel from the keyboard by following these steps:

1. Select the graphic you want to resize.
2. Press and hold the Alt key on the keyboard.
3. Press the N key, followed by the S key, and then the R key.
4. Type in the new dimensions of the graphic and press Enter to apply the changes.