Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated January 1, 2024)
This tip applies to Excel 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021
Excel allows you to place many different types of graphics objects within your worksheets. One common type of graphic object is a line or arrow. When you first insert lines or arrows into your worksheet, Excel places them using a thin line. You may want to change the width of the line used, as well as the style of line or arrow.
You make the desired changes by using the tools available on the Format tab of the ribbon. (This tab is visible only after you select the line you previously placed in the worksheet.) Click the Shape Outline option in the Shape Styles group. You'll see a palette that includes the following options:
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (8887) 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: Styles for Lines, Dashes, and Arrows.
Comprehensive VBA Guide Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) is the language used for writing macros in all Office programs. This complete guide shows both professionals and novices how to master VBA in order to customize the entire Office suite for their needs. Check out Mastering VBA for Office 2010 today!
Excel doesn't just work with numbers and text. You can also add graphics objects to your worksheets, and then use Excel's ...
Discover MoreWant your shapes to really "pop" off the page? Add a drop shadow to them, as described in this tip.
Discover MoreIf you use Excel's graphic capabilities to insert a line or an arrow into a worksheet, you can change how that arrow ...
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