Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated January 15, 2022)
This tip applies to Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003
Text boxes are a graphic element you can use in your workbooks to hold information that is ancillary to the main data in the workbook. For instance, you might use a text box to create a sidebar or other text object. To enhance your layout design using text boxes, you can add a drop shadow so the text box appears to float about the actual printed page.
To add a drop shadow to a text box, follow these steps:
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2505) applies to Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. You can find a version of this tip for the ribbon interface of Excel (Excel 2007 and later) here: Adding a Drop Shadow to a Text Box.
Excel Smarts for Beginners! Featuring the friendly and trusted For Dummies style, this popular guide shows beginners how to get up and running with Excel while also helping more experienced users get comfortable with the newest features. Check out Excel 2019 For Dummies today!
Excel makes it easy to place a graphic in a worksheet. Once there, you may want to chop off a side (or two) of the ...
Discover MoreIf the graphics that you insert in your worksheet meet a couple of simple requirements, it is possible to have those ...
Discover MoreGraphics are a great addition to a worksheet, but there may be times when you don't want them printed. The easy way to ...
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 menu interface (Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, or Excel 2003)? This site is for you! If you use a later version of Excel, visit our ExcelTips site focusing on the ribbon 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