Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated July 11, 2020)
This tip applies to Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003
There may be times when you want to insert multiple drawing objects (such as squares, rectangles, ovals, or circles) in your worksheet. Rather than click on the drawing tools on the Drawing toolbar before creating each object, Excel provides a nifty shortcut. All you need to do is double-click on the drawing tool you want to use. For instance, you can double-click on the Rectangle tool if you want to draw rectangles or squares. Excel "locks" the tool into place, and you can create as many of the objects as you desire. When you are done creating them, click on the tool again or press the Esc key to return the mouse pointer to normal.
You can apply the same concept to creating AutoShapes, but the process is just a bit longer. Follow these steps:
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2356) applies to Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003.
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