Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated February 17, 2024)
This tip applies to Word 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, and Word in Microsoft 365
Word has a feature that allows you to insert pre-defined drawing shapes in your documents, such as rectangles, ovals, or stars. There may be times when you want to completely change a drawing shape from one to another. For instance, you may want to change one banner shape to another. While you can simply delete your original shape and then draw a new one, Word makes it easy to change shapes by following these steps:
If you are still using Word 2007, then the steps are slightly different:
Word changes the shape used, without changing the overall size or shape of the bounding rectangle that contains the shape. You can then proceed to edit the new shape, as desired.
WordTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Word training. (Microsoft Word is the most popular word processing software in the world.) This tip (5961) applies to Microsoft Word 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, and Word in Microsoft 365. You can find a version of this tip for the older menu interface of Word here: Changing an AutoShape.
Do More in Less Time! An easy-to-understand guide to the more advanced features available in the Microsoft 365 version of Word. Enhance the quality of your documents and boost productivity in any field with this in-depth resource. Complete your Word-related tasks more efficiently as you unlock lesser-known tools and learn to quickly access the features you need. Check out Microsoft 365 Word For Professionals For Dummies today!
Word documents can contain more than just wordsâ€""they can also contain drawing objects such as lines and simple shapes. ...
Discover MoreWhen you need to move a drawing object around your document, you use the mouse after you select the object. This tip ...
Discover MorePlace a drawing object in your document, and it doesn't have to stay that way. You can flip a drawing object in either of ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Got a version of Word that uses the ribbon interface (Word 2007 or later)? This site is for you! If you use an earlier version of Word, visit our WordTips site focusing on the menu interface.
Visit the WordTips channel on YouTube
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments