How to Resize Graphics in PowerPoint

You may have inserted a graphic on your PowerPoint slide only to realize that it doesn't fit. Images are hardly presized for PowerPoint; they're usually too small, such as a thumbnail size, or too big, such as a high-resolution, 300 dpi image downloaded from a camera. Although the ideal situation is to choose the largest resolution you can find and reduce it, you can still use a smaller image and enlarge it; however, you will suffer a loss of quality. Resizing graphics in PowerPoint is a simple process of dragging the image handles surrounding the image.

Instructions

1. Click on the PowerPoint presentation in which you want to resize your digital images.

2. Select the graphic on the slide. Note that as soon as you choose the graphic, sizing handles appear around the perimeter.

3. Place your mouse pointer over one of the sizing handles. The pointer morphs into a two-headed arrow.

4. Click and hold your left mouse button until the pointer becomes a cross.

5. Drag the mouse in, out or diagonally to resize the graphic on the slide.

6. Release the mouse button when you have sized your graphic as you want it.

Tips & Warnings

• Respect copyright laws when using images that belong to others. Cite your sources in your PowerPoint presentation.

References

• "Microsoft PowerPoint 2010 For Dummies"; Doug Lowe; 2010