How do you change the spacing between objects in PowerPoint?

You can change the spacing between multiple selected objects in PowerPoint by using the distribution options on the Format tab.

Distributing Objects Evenly

A common way to ensure clean and consistent spacing between multiple objects, such as shapes, text boxes, or images, is to use PowerPoint's distribution tools. These tools automatically calculate and set the spacing so that it's equal between the selected items.

Here are the steps to achieve even spacing between objects using the distribute feature:

Select the objects you want to space out. Hold down the Shift or Ctrl key while clicking on each object.
Go to the Format tab in the PowerPoint ribbon. This tab appears when you have an object (or multiple objects) selected.
Click on the Align drop-down menu within the "Arrange" group.
Select either Distribute Horizontally or Distribute Vertically.
- Distribute Horizontally: This option spaces the objects evenly from left to right.
- Distribute Vertically: This option spaces the objects evenly from top to bottom.

PowerPoint will evenly space the selected objects either horizontally or vertically based on the outermost objects in your selection.

Understanding Distribution

The Distribute feature is powerful because it takes the objects you've selected and spreads them out equally within the area defined by the first and last objects in the alignment direction. It doesn't change the overall span covered by the objects; it adjusts the gaps between them.

Prerequisites

To use the distribution options effectively, you must have at least three objects selected. If you only select two objects, the distribution options will be grayed out or have no visible effect as there's only one gap to consider.

When to Use Distribution

Arranging a series of icons or images in a row or column.
Creating a bulleted list layout using text boxes.
Ensuring form fields or buttons are neatly aligned and spaced.

Using the Distribute feature is much more precise than manually dragging objects and trying to eyeball the spacing.

Here's a quick reference for distribution options:

Option	Direction	Action
Distribute Horizontally	Horizontal	Spaces selected objects evenly left-to-right.
Distribute Vertically	Vertical	Spaces selected objects evenly top-to-bottom.