Place Objects With Precision In Mac Apps

In This Tutorial

Learn how to place objects precisely in Mac apps without relying on snapping or guides. Techniques include moving objects with arrow keys, using alignment and distribution tools, bypassing snapping with the Command key, and entering exact numbers.

Arrow Keys To Move One Pixel At a Time

Select an object and use the arrow keys to move it one pixel at a time. Hold Shift with the arrow keys to move in larger increments, usually 10 pixels. This works in apps like Pages, Keynote, Freeform, Preview, and Pixelmator Pro.

Align and Distribute

Use the Arrange menu to align multiple objects left, center, right, top, middle, or bottom. You can also distribute objects evenly horizontally or vertically. The outermost objects stay fixed while the others are spaced equally between them. Available in Pages, Keynote, Freeform, and Pixelmator Pro, but not in Preview.

Hold the Command Key To Ignore Snapping

When dragging objects, hold the Command key to disable snapping to grids, guides, or other objects. This works in Pages, Keynote, Freeform, Pixelmator Pro, and even Preview. It allows you to place objects smoothly at any location.

Enter Exact Numbers

With an object selected, go to Format > Arrange to enter exact X and Y positions and sizes. You can change units from inches to points in app settings. Works in Pages, Keynote, and Pixelmator Pro, but not in Freeform or Preview.