Here's how to merge shapes in Google Slides, covering both grouping and true shape combination.
In Google Slides, the term "merging" can refer to two different actions: Grouping shapes so they behave as one unit, or Combining shapes using operations like Union or Subtract to create a single new shape. We'll cover both methods.
Grouping shapes is a common way to "merge" them in the sense that you can move, resize, and rotate them together as if they were a single object. The original shapes remain separate entities within the group.
Based on recent information, here are the steps to group shapes:
- Select the shapes: Select all the shapes by holding the "Shift" key and clicking each shape.
- Group the shapes: Then, right-click on any of the selected shapes and choose “Group.”
This action effectively merges the shapes into a single entity for manipulation purposes.
How to Ungroup Shapes
If you need to edit the individual shapes later, you can easily ungroup them:
- Select the grouped object.
- Right-click on the group.
- Choose "Ungroup."
Method 2: Combining Shapes into a New Shape (True Merging)
If you want to combine multiple shapes to form a completely new, single shape, you'll use the Shape Operations feature. This is often considered "true" merging as it alters the original shapes to create one new one.
Here's how to combine shapes:
- Select the shapes: Select the shapes you want to combine by holding down the
Shiftkey and clicking on each one. - Access Shape Operations: Go to the Arrange menu in the top bar.
- Choose an Operation: Hover over Shape operations and select the desired operation from the sub-menu.
Understanding Shape Operations
Google Slides offers several shape operations:
- Union: Combines all selected shapes into a single new shape that encompasses the area of all original shapes.
- Subtract: Subtracts the top shape from the bottom shape. Useful for cutting holes or creating unique angles.
- Intersect: Creates a new shape from the area where all selected shapes overlap.
- Exclude Overlap: Creates a new shape from the area of all selected shapes except where they overlap.
Choosing the correct operation depends on the visual outcome you want to achieve.
Grouping vs. Merging: Quick Comparison
Understanding the difference helps you choose the right method:
| Feature | Grouping | Combining (Shape Operations) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Manage multiple objects as one unit | Create a single, new shape |
| Outcome | Multiple shapes treated as one | A single, new shape |
| Editability | Individual shapes can be edited after Ungrouping | Original shapes are gone; new shape is static |
| File Size | Slightly increases file size per shape | Can potentially simplify complex shapes |
Grouping is best when you need to move or resize several elements together but might need to adjust them individually later. Combining is ideal when you want to create a custom shape from scratch by merging basic forms.
