Create Bézier curves

A hidden feature in PowerPoint lets you create fluid curves like this. They’re called Bézier curves.

fluid curves

Follow these steps:

1. Insert a shape from the Shapes gallery on the Home or Insert tab. (In 2003, you need to use a curve, freeform or scribble. Choose AutoShapes> Lines on the Drawing toolbar.  In 2007, if you have a rectangle or other shape, select it, click the Format tab, and choose Edit Shape> Convert to Freeform.)
2. Right-click the shape and choose Edit Points. (In PowerPoint 2003, select the shape and from the Drawing toolbar, choose Draw> Edit Points.) You now see the vertices displayed.
3. Click on a vertex to display two handles on either side of the vertex.
4. Drag the handles to create the Bezier curves, as you see here.

How to Create the Bezier Curves

You can also do the following:

• Add a vertex: Press Ctrl and click anywhere on the outline.
• Delete a vertex: Press Ctrl and click any vertex.
• Straighten a segment: Right-click along a segment and choose Straight Segment.
• Make a straight segment curved: Right-click along a segment and choose Curved Segment.
• Create a corner point: Right-click a vertex and choose Corner Point. This ensures a sharp corner.
• Create a smooth point: Right-click a vertex and choose Smooth Point. This ensures a non-sharp corner.
• Create a straight point: Right-click a vertex and choose Straight Point. This disallows a corner.

How do you use Bezier curves? Leave a comment!