OFF97: "Lock Aspect Ratio" Checkbox Doesn't Always Work

• Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows
• Microsoft Word 97 for Windows
• Microsoft PowerPoint 97 for Windows

SYMPTOMS

In any of the programs listed at the beginning of this article, when you resize a drawing object or AutoShape for which the Lock Aspect Ratio property is selected, you can still change the aspect ratio of the object.

CAUSE

This problem occurs if you use an edge handle to resize the drawing object or AutoShape. The Lock Aspect Ratio property applies only when you use a corner handle to resize the drawing object or AutoShape.

WORKAROUND

To work around this behavior, resize the object using a corner handle.

MORE INFORMATION

The aspect ratio is defined as the ratio of the width of an object to its height.

When you select a drawing object or AutoShape, eight small squares called handles appear around the object. The four squares at the corners of the rectangle that contain the object are the corner handles. The four handles at the centers of the edges of the rectangle are the edge handles.

In the programs listed at the beginning of this article, you can lock the aspect ratio of a drawing object or AutoShape using the following steps:

1. Right-click the drawing object or AutoShape. On the shortcut menu, click Format AutoShape.

2. Click the Size tab.

3. Click to select the Lock Aspect Ratio check box.

4. Click OK.

However, if you resize an object using an edge handle, the aspect ratio of the object is changed, even if the Lock Aspect Ratio check box is selected.