Distribute shapes evenly in an x/y grid

Question

I am looking for a way to distribute a group of shapes both vertically and horizontally, evenly spaced, within a given space (on the canvas or could be within a container), without having to first move all the shapes around manually.
Essentially, take a pile of shapes and distribute them into an evenly-spaced grid with the click of a button.
Example:

Any and all suggestions on how to accomplish this would be appreciated.

If the ability to perform this operation does not currently exist, please add this to the queue!

Leianne C · Accepted Answer

Hi @z.reiser, thank you for posting in the community! Unfortunately there isn’t currently an easy way to distribute shapes the way you’ve described.

However, as a workaround you could add your objects to the canvas and switch to Lucidspark using Universal Canvas. From there you can use the quick cleanup function to quickly bring the shapes together in an orderly manner. This function is typically used for sticky notes but it works on other objects as well. I’ve attached GIF demonstrating this!

If you’d like to see more options to distribute shapes into a grid, we encourage you to create an idea post with details about your use case or what you’d like to see in this experience. This will also allow other users with similar requests to discover and upvote it, then add details of their own.

Finally, for more information on how Lucid manages feedback via this community, take a look at this post:

Thank you for sharing your ideas in the community. Please feel free to let us know if you have any questions!

Ria S · Answer

Hi @z.reiserTo evenly distribute a group of shapes both vertically and horizontallywithout manual adjustment, you can use the Align and Distribute tools. Here’s how you can achieve this:1. Select All ShapesDrag your mouse to create a selection box around all the shapes you want to distribute, or hold down the Shift key while clicking each shape.2. Use the Align ToolGo to the Arrange menu in the top toolbar, then select Align.Choose Align Middle to align all selected shapes horizontally along their center points.Choose Align Center to align them vertically along their center points.3. Use the Distribute ToolWith all shapes still selected, go back to the Arrange menu, then choose Distribute.Select Distribute Horizontally to spread the shapes evenly across the horizontal axis.Select Distribute Vertically to spread the shapes evenly along the vertical axis.4. Use Grid Layout Option (If Available)In some cases, Lucidchart may have a Grid Layout option for specific templates or diagrams (like flowcharts or ERDs). If this is available, it can help to quickly arrange shapes in an even grid pattern.5. Manually Adjust Container Size (Optional)If your shapes are within a container, resizing the container after applying the alignment and distribution can help adjust the overall spacing to your preference.By using these steps, you can turn a messy pile of shapes into a neatly arranged grid, as shown in your "Before" and "After" example. This should save you time and maintain an organized look without manually moving each shape.Hope this helps.Regards,

1. Select All Shapes

2. Use the Align Tool

3. Use the Distribute Tool

4. Use Grid Layout Option (If Available)

5. Manually Adjust Container Size (Optional)

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