How to Reduce Picture Size in XP

Resize images using Paint.

Microsoft bundles several accessory software applications with its Windows operating system. Windows XP has the Microsoft Paint accessory application, which is lightweight graphics software that allows you to edit images. You can resize, convert and add simple text and edits to image types such as BMP, JPG and GIF. The software provides a quick and easy way to resize your home images on your Windows machine.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and select "All Programs." Click "Accessories" and then click "Microsoft Paint." This opens the application program.

2. Click the "File" menu item and then select "Open." Double-click the image you want to resize to open it in the Paint program.

3. Click the "Image" menu item and select "Resize." A dialog box opens with input text boxes to resize your image.

4. Check the box labeled "Maintain aspect ratio." This avoids distortion when you resize the image. Enter the new image size using a percentage of the image. For instance, if you want to reduce the image to half of its current size, enter 50 into the horizontal text box. The vertical size is automatically set to 50 as well.

5. Click "OK" to save your settings. If you are unhappy with the new size, and you want to redo the settings, click "Undo" in the main toolbar and repeat these steps.

References

• Microsoft: Resize a picture using Paint