A graphic frame is a shape designed to contain other graphical objects like tables, charts, or SmartArt within a document or presentation. It acts as a container for these specific elements.
While common usage might refer to a table or chart itself as a "shape," technically, according to the reference provided, the graphic frame is the actual shape element that holds these items. The contained objects (tables, charts, SmartArt) are considered DrawingML (DML) objects nested inside this graphic frame shape.
Understanding the Components
Think of a graphic frame as a dedicated box or placeholder specifically built to hold complex graphical elements.
- The Frame: This is the outer boundary, the "shape" itself. It provides a container structure.
- The Contained Object: This is the actual graphical element inside the frame.
Objects Contained by a Graphic Frame
According to the reference, a graphic frame is used to contain:
- Tables: Structured grids for organizing data.
- Charts: Visual representations of data (like bar graphs, line charts).
- SmartArt objects: Predefined sets of shapes used to quickly create visual representations of information and ideas (like organization charts, process flows).
The Technical Distinction
It's important to note the technical definition highlighted in the reference:
- Graphic Frame: The shape container.
- Table, Chart, SmartArt: DrawingML (DML) objects located within the graphic frame shape.
This distinction clarifies that while users manipulate tables or charts on a page, they are often working with graphical objects that reside inside a dedicated graphic frame container, which is the true "shape" in this context.
