Add text to a shape or text box

Select any AutoShape and start typing. New text is added to the end of any existing text within the shape.

Note You cannot add text to a line, connector, or freeform this way; use a text box to place text near or on these drawing objects.

Show Add text that is independent of the shape

On the Drawing toolbar, click Text Box .
Click near or on the AutoShape where you want to add the text, and start typing.
Size the text box by dragging the sizing handles.

Note The text box will not move when you move the shape.

On the Drawing toolbar, click Text Box .
Do one of the following:
- To add text that stays on one line (doesn't wrap), click where you want to add the text, and then start typing.
- To add text that wraps, drag to create a box the size you want, and then start typing.

Show Tip

The text box must have a fill for you to see the new shape. To change the shape of a text box to any AutoShape, select the text box, click Draw on the Drawing toolbar, point to Change AutoShape, point to a category, and then click the shape you want.