Be able to rotate an image correctly using common ICT software.
Why Rotate an Image?
Correct orientation for presentation or printing.
Improve visual impact in documents, slides, or web pages.
Align images with text or other graphic elements.
Common Software for Rotating Images
Software
Typical Use
Rotation Options
Microsoft Paint
Basic editing on Windows
90°, 180°, 270° (clockwise) – via Rotate menu
Microsoft Word / PowerPoint
Embedding images in documents or slides
Free‑hand rotation, 90° increments – via Picture Tools
Adobe Photoshop
Advanced image manipulation
Arbitrary angle, 90° increments – via Image → Image Rotation
GIMP (free)
Open‑source alternative to Photoshop
Arbitrary angle, 90° increments – via Image → Transform
Step‑by‑Step Procedure (Using Microsoft Paint)
Open Paint and load the image: File → Open.
Click the Rotate button on the toolbar.
Choose the required rotation:
Rotate right 90° (clockwise)
Rotate left 90° (counter‑clockwise)
Rotate 180°
Check the orientation in the preview area.
Save the rotated image: File → Save As to keep the original file unchanged.
Keyboard Shortcuts (Where Available)
Ctrl + R – Open the Rotate menu in Paint.
Alt + H, R, R – Rotate right 90° in Word (access via ribbon).
Ctrl + Alt + I – Open Image Rotation dialog in Photoshop.
Considerations When Rotating
Resolution: Rotating does not change pixel dimensions, but some programs may resample the image, affecting quality.
Aspect Ratio: Ensure the canvas size matches the new orientation; otherwise, blank space may appear.
File Format: Lossless formats (PNG, TIFF) preserve quality; JPEG may degrade after repeated saves.
Metadata: Some software updates EXIF orientation tags automatically; verify the final file displays correctly on all devices.
Common Problems & Solutions
Problem
Possible Cause
Solution
Image appears sideways after rotation
Incorrect 90° increment chosen
Undo (Ctrl+Z) and select the correct rotation option.
Blurry edges after rotation
Software resampled the image
Use a program that offers “Rotate without resampling” (e.g., Photoshop’s “Image Rotation → 90° Clockwise”).
File size increases dramatically
Saving as a different format or with higher colour depth
Save using the original format and appropriate compression settings.
Assessment Checklist
Can you open an image in at least two different programs?
Can you rotate an image by 90°, 180°, and an arbitrary angle?
Do you know how to preserve the original file by using “Save As”?
Can you explain the impact of rotation on resolution and file size?
Are you able to troubleshoot common rotation problems?
Summary
Rotating an image is a fundamental skill in ICT. It involves selecting the appropriate software, applying the desired rotation angle, and saving the result while considering resolution, aspect ratio, and file format. Mastery of shortcuts and awareness of common pitfalls will help you work efficiently and produce professional‑looking documents and presentations.
Suggested diagram: Flowchart showing the decision process for choosing rotation method and software.