Quick answer: Choose Insert → Shapes → Oval and hold Shift while dragging to draw a circle. For exact dimensions, set the same Height and Width under Shape Format.
Draw a Perfect Circle in Word or PowerPoint
- Open Insert > Shapes and choose Oval (under Basic Shapes).
- Click and drag on the page or slide. Hold Shift while dragging to constrain the oval to a circle.
- Release the mouse button before releasing Shift. Select the shape to change its fill, outline or size using Shape Format.
Resize a Circle Without Distorting It
You can also resize the circle after drawing it.
- Select the circle and open Shape Format > Size.
- Set Height and Width to the same value, such as 5 cm, for precise dimensions.
- Alternatively, drag a corner sizing handle while holding Shift to retain proportions. Avoid side handles, which can stretch the circle into an oval.
Summary
Use Insert > Shapes > Oval and constrain proportions with Shift, or set matching height and width for an exact circle. In Word, select a suitable Wrap Text option if the shape needs to move independently of surrounding paragraphs.
Important Details and Troubleshooting
A side-handle resize can distort the circle. To preserve its shape, resize proportionally or reset equal height and width. In Word, adjust text wrapping to control positioning.
Circle versus Oval: Why Does My Shape Look Stretched?
An oval has unequal height and width. A circle has equal height and width. If holding Shift did not work, select the shape and enter identical measurements in the Size controls. Word and PowerPoint may place the controls differently depending on the ribbon layout and platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a circle with no fill? Yes. Select the shape, choose Shape Fill > No Fill, and use Shape Outline to set its border.
How can I place text inside a circle? Select the circle and type, or right-click it and choose Add Text where available. Use the text alignment controls to position the text.
Why does a circle move when I edit text in Word? Word’s text-wrapping and anchor settings control how floating shapes move with paragraphs. Select the shape and review Layout Options or Wrap Text.
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