Distribute Objects Horizontally and Vertically in Google Slides
- David Pang
- Dec 13, 2025
- 4 min read
Distribution in Google Slides is the process of spacing multiple objects evenly so every item sits at an equal distance from the next. Slides supports distribution for several object types, including shapes, text boxes, images, icons, and grouped elements.
When spacing is clean and consistent, the slide becomes easier to scan, and the layout feels more intentional. Hence, we will explain how to distribute objects in Google Slides with menu navigation and extensions like SheetWhiz.
How Many Object Distribution Types Are There in Google Slides?
You can distribute objects in two dimensions in Google Slides, i.e., Horizontal and Vertical distributions. This differs from object alignment in Slides, which positions objects along shared edges or centers but ignores the spacing between them. We have explained both these distribution types in detail below:
Horizontal Distribution of Objects
Horizontal distribution spreads objects evenly from left to right and ensures that the space between each object is identical. It does not change the object width or shape. Instead, it adjusts position so the spacing feels balanced across the row.
Here are some ideal use cases of horizontal distribution in Slides:
Multi-column comparison slides
Icon rows
Navigation button bars
Step indicators
Progress diagrams
Vertical Distribution of Objects
Vertical distribution spreads objects evenly from top to bottom. It ensures that each object sits at an equal distance from the next. This works well for stacked text boxes, step-by-step diagrams, and lists that need consistent spacing to maintain readability.
The ideal use cases for vertical distribution in Slides are:
Process flows
Stacked callouts
Text box lists
Vertical navigation elements
How to Distribute Objects in Google Slides?
While there are no keyboard shortcuts, you can access the distribution tools through the Arrange menu. These commands offer quick control over spacing without needing to drag objects manually across the slide. Here is how you can access this menu:
Instructions: Select the targeted objects and go to the Arrange menu in the Menu Ribbon. Afterward, choose the Distribute option from the dropdown, and click on the Vertically or Horizontally alignment option, depending on your needs.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You need to select at least three objects to use the Distribution feature in Google Slides.
Quick Reference Table
This table helps you remember the conditions required before trying to distribute objects. You can use it as a quick reference when formatting complex layouts:
Action | Menu Path | Requirement | Output |
Distribute Horizontally | Arrange → Distribute → Horizontally | 3+ objects | Even left–right spacing |
Distribute Vertically | Arrange → Distribute → Vertically | 3+ objects | Even top–bottom spacing |
SheetWhiz: A Faster Way to Distribute Objects in Google Slides
While Google Slides provides distribution tools, the process requires several menu steps each time. SheetWhiz offers a faster option by letting you assign quick shortcut keys for horizontal or vertical distribution. This helps you format slides faster, especially when working with many repeated layout patterns.
For example, the shortcut keys to distribute objects in Slides using SheetWhiz are:
Distribute Horizontally:
On Windows: ALT + H + A + H
On Mac: Option + H + A + H
Distribute Vertically:
On Windows: ALT + H + A + V
On Mac: Option + H + A + V
SheetWhiz also supports customizable shortcuts that feel familiar to anyone coming from PowerPoint workflows. This provides the same convenience to the users as the Quick Access Toolbar in PowerPoint. As a result, users can assign shortcut combinations that match their own habits (as shown in the following tutorial):
How to Use SheetWhiz Shortcuts to Distribute Objects in Slides?
The following tutorial explains the simple steps that you can perform to utilize the object alignment shortcuts in SheetWhiz:
Step 1: Head to the Chrome Web Store and install the SheetWhiz extension.
Step 2: Once installed, reload your slides and hit the SheetWhiz icon at the top. The login menu will appear, where you need to sign up for a free account.
Step 3: In the end, utilize the given shortcuts to distribute objects in Google Slides. Refer to the following tutorial to know how the shortcuts work:
Other Slides Shortcuts Offered in SheetWhiz
Apart from distribution shortcuts, SheetWhiz provides quick actions for layering, grouping, and text alignment, so you can format slides faster without menu clicks. These tools make professional slide layouts easier to achieve in less time.
You can browse the full shortcut list in the table below and pick the ones that fit your workflow best:
Shortcut Name | Shortcut Keys | What It Does |
Bring to Front | Alt → H → G → R | Moves the selected object above all other objects |
Send to Back | Alt → H → G → K | Moves the selected object behind all other objects |
Bring Forward | Alt → H → G → F | Moves the object one layer closer to the front |
Send Backward | Alt → H → G → B | Moves the object one layer closer to the back |
Increase Font Size | Alt → H → F → G | Makes the selected text slightly larger |
Decrease Font Size | Alt → H → F → K | Makes the selected text slightly smaller |
Set Font Size | Alt → H → F → S | Opens font-size settings for chosen text |
Set Font | Alt → H → F → F | Opens font-style options to change text typeface |
Group | Alt → A → G → G | Connects multiple objects so they move together |
Ungroup | Alt → A → G | Separates grouped objects so they move individually |
SheetWhiz also uses the same shortcut logic across both Google Sheets and Google Slides. For example, you can use Goal Seek, increase or decrease font style, merge or unmerge cells, and find all other shortcuts that are otherwise available in Excel.
Note: Don't forget to save our detailed list of Google Sheets built-in shortcuts.
Conclusion
You can distribute objects in Slides by accessing the distribution options in the Arrange menu. This menu path allows you to access the vertical and horizontal distribution of objects. If you are looking for a quick alternative, the SheetWhiz extension is the best option, as it allows using customizable shortcuts to distribute objects and do more.