Changing an AutoShape

There may be times when you want to completely change an AutoShape from one to another. For instance, you may want to change one banner shape to another. While you can simply delete your original AutoShape and then draw a new one, Word makes it easy to change AutoShapes by following these steps if you are using a version of Word prior to Word 2007:

1. Make sure the Drawing toolbar is displayed.
2. Select the AutoShape you want to change. Handles should appear around the outside of the shape.
3. Click your mouse on Draw on the Drawing toolbar, and then choose Change AutoShape. The familiar AutoShape categories will appear.
4. Select the AutoShape you want to use.

If you are using Word 2007, there is no Drawing toolbar for you to use. Instead you should follow these steps to change your AutoShape:

1. Select the AutoShape you want to change. Word displays handles around the outside of the shape and automatically displays the Format tab of the ribbon. If the Format tab is not selected, click on it once. (This tab is not even visible or accessible unless the AutoShape is selected.)
2. In the Shape Styles area, click Change Shape. Word displays a drop-down list of the available shapes.
3. Select the AutoShape you want to use.

Word changes the AutoShape used, without changing the overall size or shape of the bounding rectangle that contains the AutoShape. You can then proceed to edit the new AutoShape, as desired.