When you want to join two objects with a line, the easiest way to do it is to use a connection line (rather than creating a separate line as a shape). Two objects joined by a connection line remain joined even if you reposition the objects on the slide canvas.

To join two objects with a connection line:

  1. Hold down the Command key while you select the two objects you want to join, and then choose Insert > Connection Line.

    A straight line appears, connecting the selected objects. You can move the object separately, and the connection line shrinks, stretches, and changes its position to keep the objects connected.

  2. To make the line curved, drag the white editing point near the center of the line.

    If you drag the objects into different positions on the slide canvas, the curvature of the line adjusts to keep the objects connected.

  3. To create a gap between the end of the line and one of the connected objects, so that they aren’t actually touching, drag the blue editing point at the end of the line away from the object it’s touching.

    The line maintains the gap between itself and the connected object as you move the objects around.

  4. To change the line color, style, thickness, or endpoints, format it using the controls in the format bar or Graphic inspector, as you would for any other line.

    For more detailed information about changing these attributes, see the topics under About Modifying Object Size, Orientation, Outline, and More.

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