What It Does

The Shape Tool simplifies drawing shapes and enhances diagramming capabilities.

Features include a shape library for creating diagrams and flowcharts, connectors that link shapes together, and the ability to add text within shapes to label and explain diagram elements.

Basic Shape Types for Diagramming:

• Elbow Connectors — Structured lines that make 90-degree turns, perfect for organized flowcharts and diagrams where clean, geometric connections are needed
• Curved Connectors — Flexible, organic lines that follow a smooth path between shapes, ideal for mind maps and less rigid diagrams
• Ovals/Circles — Create perfect circles or ovals for depicting cycles and processes
• Rectangles/Squares/Diamonds — Make basic geometric shapes for flowcharts and diagrams
• Triangles/Polygons — Add directional indicators and structural elements

How to Use It

Insert a shape

1. Choose the Shape Tool in the toolbar.

2. Choose a desired shape, e.g. rectangle.

   

3. (Optional) Customize the stroke and color of the shape you’ll insert.

   • Customize the shape stroke
   • Customize ****the shape color

4. Drag on the page to create a shape.

   • Line or curve connector: Draw as you would on paper to connect existing shapes.

   • Other shapes: Drag diagonally.

     

     Dragging to create a shape

5. Adjust, move, or edit your newly drawn shape.

Draw a shape with AutoShape