Be able to place an image with precision

Topic 12 – Images

Objective

Be able to place an image with precision in a document or presentation.

1. Why precise image placement matters

Accurate positioning of images helps to:

• Enhance the visual appeal of a document.
• Support the flow of information.
• Maintain consistency across pages or slides.
• Meet exam requirements for layout and presentation.

2. Common image file formats

Format	Typical Use	Compression	Transparency Support
JPEG / JPG	Photographs, complex colour images	Lossy – small file size	No
PNG	Graphics, logos, screenshots	Lossless – larger file size	Yes
GIF	Simple graphics, animated images	Lossless (limited colours)	Yes (single colour)
BMP	Uncompressed raster images	None – very large files	No
S \cdot G	Vector graphics, icons	Lossless – scalable	Yes

3. Positioning options in typical ICT software

Most word processors and presentation tools provide the following positioning controls:

1. Alignment – left, centre, right, justified.
2. Wrapping – square, tight, through, top and bottom, behind text, in front of text.
3. Anchoring – attaches the image to a paragraph, page, or slide.
4. Exact coordinates – specify X (horizontal) and Y (vertical) distances from a reference point.
5. Size control – set width and height in centimetres, inches or pixels.

4. Steps to place an image with precision (example using Microsoft Word)

1. Insert the image: Insert → Pictures → This Device…
2. Select the image and open the Layout Options dialog.
3. Choose More Layout Options… and set:
   • Horizontal – select “Absolute position” and enter the required distance (e.g., 3 cm) from the Page margin or Column.
   • Vertical – select “Absolute position” and enter the required distance (e.g., 5 cm) from the Top margin or Paragraph.
   • Set the Wrap text style to “Square” or “Tight” as required.
   • Lock the aspect ratio if you only change one dimension.
4. Click OK. The image now sits at the exact coordinates you entered.
5. To fine‑tune, use the arrow keys while holding Ctrl for 0.1 cm increments.

5. Using a grid or ruler for precision (example using PowerPoint)

1. Show the grid: View → Grid and Guides → Display grid on screen.
2. Enable “Snap to Grid” to align objects automatically.
3. Open the Size & Position pane (right‑click the image → “Size and Position”).
4. Enter exact values for Left and Top” positions.
5. Adjust the image size by entering exact Height and Width values.

6. Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Distorted images – always lock the aspect ratio before resizing.
• Unintended text flow – check the wrapping style; “In line with text” can shift the image when text is edited.
• Loss of precision after editing – avoid moving the image manually; use the coordinate fields instead.
• Large file size – use appropriate formats (e.g., JPEG for photos, PNG for graphics with transparency) and compress if necessary.

7. Summary checklist

1. Choose the correct image format for the content.
2. Insert the image and open the layout/position dialog.
3. Set absolute horizontal and vertical positions relative to a stable reference (page margin, column, or slide).
4. Select an appropriate text‑wrap style.
5. Lock aspect ratio before resizing.
6. Verify the final layout on screen and in print preview.

8. Self‑assessment questions

1. Which image format would you use for a logo that requires a transparent background? Explain why.
2. Describe the difference between “In line with text” and “Square” wrapping.
3. How would you place an image 2 cm from the left margin and 4 cm from the top margin in a Word document?
4. What steps would you take to ensure an image does not become distorted when you change its size?
5. Why might you prefer to use exact coordinates rather than dragging an image into place?