PPT2002: Small Autoshapes Appear Distorted (278594)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft PowerPoint 2002
This article was previously published under Q278594

SYMPTOMS

In Microsoft PowerPoint, inserted AutoShapes and other drawing objects may appear incomplete, distorted in shape, or even unrecognizable.

CAUSE

This issue may occur if the inserted object is relatively small, the line weight is heavy, and the line style is a form of dashed line. Line weight and dashed line style do not change in proportion to the size of the inserted object. For example, when you use the Dash line style, the dashes are each approximately 3/8 inches long. If you reduce the size of the object that is using the Dash line style to one-half its original size, the dashes are still approximately 3/8 inches long.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this issue, follow these general rules:
  • For objects whose smallest dimension is less than 1 inch, use the continuous line style.
  • For objects whose smallest dimension is less than 1 inch, use a line weight of 2 points or less.
  • If the necessity of using a dashed line makes it difficult to recognize the shape of an object, consider adding color to the inserted shape.

MORE INFORMATION

To change the line weight and dashed style of an inserted shape, follow these steps:
  1. Open the slide that contains the object that you want to change.
  2. Double-click the object.

    The Format AutoShape dialog box appears.
  3. Click the Colors and Lines tab.
  4. Under Line, in the Weight box, select the line weight that you want.
  5. Under Line, in the Dashed box, select the Dashed style that you want.
  6. Click OK.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:4/13/2004
Keywords:kbprb KB278594
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