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How to Use SmartArt in Word 2016
Edited 5 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
Microsoft OfficeWordSmartArtDiagramVisualizationDesignDocumentWindowsMacGraphicsPresentationCustomization
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SmartArt is a beautiful feature in Microsoft Word 2016. It helps you create diagrams, lists, and other visual elements to make information more appealing. With SmartArt, you can present information clearly and effectively. If you want to use SmartArt in Word 2016, continue reading this detailed guide. We will explain every step in a way that is easy to understand.
What is SmartArt?
SmartArt is a graphical tool that provides a variety of options for representing information. It includes different layouts such as lists, processes, cycles, hierarchies, relationships, matrices, and pyramids. SmartArt helps transform boring text into interesting diagrams. It enhances documents and presentations, making them more appealing to the audience.
Why use SmartArt?
There are several reasons why SmartArt is beneficial in Word 2016:
- This gives better structure to your information.
- This makes the data easier to read and understand.
- It helps in visual representation of ideas and concepts.
- It gives a professional look to your documents.
- This makes presentations more engaging and visually appealing.
How to insert SmartArt in Word 2016
Inserting SmartArt into your Word document is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to create your own SmartArt graphic:
Step 1: Open your document
Get started by opening Microsoft Word 2016. You can choose to open an existing document where you want to add SmartArt, or you can create a new document by choosing File > New.
Step 2: Go to the Insert tab
Click the Insert tab in the ribbon at the top of the window. The Insert tab gives you access to a variety of tools, including SmartArt, for adding content to your document.
Step 3: Choose SmartArt
In the Insert tab, you'll see the Illustrations group. Click SmartArt, which will open the Choose a SmartArt Graphic dialog box.
Step 4: Choose a SmartArt layout
The dialog box presents various categories of diagrams that you can choose from. These categories include:
- List: Best for presenting information in a list format.
- Process: Ideal for showing steps or stages.
- Cycle: Useful for cyclic processes.
- Hierarchy: Good for organizational charts or structures.
- Relationship: Displays the relationship between information.
- Matrix: Best for showing dimensions of a concept.
- Pyramid: Useful for hierarchical or pyramid models.
Click a category to see previews of available layouts. When you find a layout that suits your needs, click to select it, then click OK.
How to add text to SmartArt
Once you've inserted a SmartArt graphic, you'll need to add text to it. Here's how to do this:
Use the text pane
When you click a SmartArt graphic, an optional pane called the Text pane appears next to it. You can type your text directly in the Text pane. Each bullet in the Text pane corresponds to a shape in the SmartArt graphic. Enter your text, and watch it appear automatically in the shapes within the graphic.
In straight shapes
You can also click directly on each shape in a SmartArt graphic to type. Place your cursor in a shape, click to insert the text cursor, and begin typing.
How to modify your SmartArt
After you insert your SmartArt graphic and add text, you may want to modify it. You have a few options:
Change the layout
If you think the initial layout you chose isn't quite right, or if you just want to try a different design, you can easily change it. Click the SmartArt graphic to select it, go to the SmartArt Tools tab, and click Design. In the Layout group, you can browse other layouts and choose one that suits your needs.
Invert colors
The colors of a SmartArt graphic can also be changed. Select your SmartArt, click Design under SmartArt Tools, and choose Change Colors in the SmartArt Styles group. A palette of colors will appear, allowing you to choose a color scheme for your graphic.
Apply a SmartArt style
SmartArt styles provide various effects that can make your graphic more attractive, such as giving your shapes a beveled look or adding shading. To apply these, click your SmartArt, go to the Design tab, and locate the styles available in the SmartArt Styles group.
Resizing and moving SmartArt
You may need to resize or move your SmartArt graphic to fit your document layout. Here's how you can do that:
Size
Click to select the SmartArt graphic. A border with resizing handles will appear around it. Click and drag any of these handles to resize the graphic. Dragging a corner handle will resize it proportionally, while dragging a side handle will stretch it.
Step
To move your SmartArt graphic, click it to select it. Position your cursor over the border until it changes to a four-sided arrow, then click and drag to move it to the desired location.
Example scenario: creating an organization chart
Imagine that you have been tasked with creating an organization chart for your company's annual report. SmartArt can make this process simple and efficient.
Step 1: Insert the Hierarchy SmartArt
Go to the Insert tab, choose SmartArt, go to the Hierarchy category, and select the Organization Chart layout. Click OK to insert it into your document.
Step 2: Enter the text
Use the text panes to enter the names and positions of employees. The top figure should contain the CEO's name and position, while subordinates can be added via sub-bullet points.
Step 3: Customize the chart
Use the Design and Format tabs to change colors and styles to suit the company's brand image. Use SmartArt styles to apply a professional finish.
Practical tips for using SmartArt
Here are some additional tips to help you get the most out of SmartArt in Word 2016.
Keep it simple
Don't overcomplicate your SmartArt graphic. Simplicity helps with understanding.
Choose the right layout
Consider the nature of your information and choose the layout that best represents it. For example, use a cycle layout for processes with no defined beginning or end.
Consistent color scheme
Use a consistent color scheme to maintain a professional appearance.
Consider the audience
Tailor your SmartArt design to your audience's preferences and expectations. Make sure it's easy for anyone who sees it to understand it.
Conclusion
SmartArt in Word 2016 is a versatile and powerful tool for enhancing your documents and presentations. Whether you're creating an organizational chart, process flow, or pyramid of ideas, SmartArt can help you. By following the steps in this guide and taking advantage of the available customization options, you can effectively use SmartArt to convey your information in a professional and attractive way.
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