The drawing tools Format tab or Contextual tab appears when you select a drawing object in a document.
Detailed Explanation
The Format tab, also known as the Contextual tab, is a feature in Microsoft Office applications, such as Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, that offers specific formatting options for the selected object. When you insert or select a drawing object, like a shape, SmartArt, or textbox, the Format tab automatically appears in the Ribbon, providing you with various customization tools.
Examples
- Shapes: When you insert a shape (e.g., a rectangle, circle, or arrow) and select it, the Format tab appears. This tab offers options for adjusting the shape’s fill color, outline, and effects, as well as arranging, aligning, and resizing the object.
- SmartArt: If you insert a SmartArt graphic, such as an organizational chart or process flow, selecting it will display the Format tab. You can then change the colors, style, and layout of the SmartArt, as well as individual elements within it.
- Textboxes: When you create or select a textbox, the Format tab appears, allowing you to modify the textbox’s fill, outline, and effects. You can also change the text direction, alignment, and margins within the textbox.
Relevant Stats
- Microsoft Office user base: As of 2021, Microsoft Office had more than 1.2 billion users, with millions relying on features like the Format tab to create and edit documents.
- Office 365: By September 2021, Office 365 had reached over 300 million active users. This subscription-based service includes access to the latest Office applications, including the advanced formatting options provided by the Format tab.
The Format tab, or Contextual tab, is an essential feature in Microsoft Office applications, which becomes visible when you select a drawing object. This tab provides users with a variety of formatting options for customizing their objects and improving the overall design and organization of their documents.