Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated May 22, 2025)
This tip applies to Excel 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021
When you create drawing objects in Excel, each object is drawn on its own layer. This means all objects are independent and can be moved on top of other objects. This means that once you have drawn a number of different objects you can reorder them so that they appear in the order that you desire. You can do this by following these steps:
You can also access the ordering commands by right-clicking on a drawing object. There are four different ordering commands:
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (6150) applies to Microsoft Excel 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021. You can find a version of this tip for the older menu interface of Excel here: Specifying an Order for Drawing Objects.
Dive Deep into Macros! Make Excel do things you thought were impossible, discover techniques you won't find anywhere else, and create powerful automated reports. Bill Jelen and Tracy Syrstad help you instantly visualize information to make it actionable. You’ll find step-by-step instructions, real-world case studies, and 50 workbooks packed with examples and solutions. Check out Microsoft Excel 2019 VBA and Macros today!
Add a drawing object to your worksheet, and at some point, you may want to change that object's size. You can easily ...
Discover MoreEver wanted to create a simple drawing in your worksheet? Excel has made this simple. This tip explains how Excel uses ...
Discover MoreYou can add text to all sorts of drawing shapes, not just text boxes. Here's how easy it is.
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Got a version of Excel that uses the ribbon interface (Excel 2007 or later)? This site is for you! If you use an earlier version of Excel, visit our ExcelTips site focusing on the menu interface.
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments