To achieve text that appears in a circular shape in PowerPoint, you typically use WordArt and apply a text transformation effect. While it's not a traditional text box object shaped like a circle, this method allows you to arrange text along a circular path.
Here is how you can create circular text using WordArt in PowerPoint:
Steps to Create Circular Text
The process involves inserting WordArt, entering your desired text, and then applying a specific text effect to bend it into a circular form.
- Insert WordArt: Go to the Insert tab in the ribbon and select WordArt.
- Pick the WordArt style you want: Choose a style from the gallery that appears. This determines the initial look of your text.
- Type your text: A text box will appear with placeholder text. Delete this and type the text you want to curve into a circle.
- Select the WordArt: Click on the WordArt object you just created to select it. This will make the Shape Format tab appear.
- Apply a Circular Transform: Go to the Shape Format tab, find the WordArt Styles group, click on Text Effects, hover over Transform, and then pick the effect you want from the "Follow Path" or "Warp" sections. Look for effects like "Circle" or "Curve" which will shape your text into a circular path.
Visualizing the Process
Here's a simple overview of the steps:
| Step | Action | Tab/Group | Option Path |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Insert WordArt | Insert | Insert > WordArt |
| 2 | Choose a Style | (Gallery) | |
| 3 | Type your text | (On slide) | |
| 4 | Select the WordArt Object | (On slide) | |
| 5 | Apply Transform Effect | Shape Format | Text Effects > Transform |
| 6 | Select a Circular Effect | (Transform Menu) | Follow Path (e.g., Circle) / Warp |
Understanding WordArt and Transform Effects
WordArt is a feature that allows you to add stylized text to your presentation. Unlike a standard text box, WordArt is treated as an object that can have various graphic effects applied to it, including transformations that change the shape of the text layout.
The Transform effect within the Text Effects options allows you to bend, stretch, or warp the WordArt text. The "Follow Path" and "Warp" sections offer various shapes, including circles and arcs, enabling you to make your text follow these paths.
Adjusting Your Circular Text
Once the circular transformation is applied, you can further adjust the shape and size:
- Resize: Drag the corner handles of the WordArt bounding box to change its overall size. This will also affect the curvature of the text.
- Adjust Curve: Look for a pink or yellow handle (often appearing as a diamond) on the WordArt object. Dragging this handle allows you to adjust the degree of curvature or the path the text follows, fine-tuning the circular appearance.
- Reposition: Click and drag the WordArt object to move it to the desired location on your slide.
By following these steps, you can effectively create text arranged in a circular shape in your PowerPoint presentation, using the capabilities of WordArt and its transform effects.
