To apply variable transparency to an object

1. Select a closed object.

2. Click the Format tool in the toolbox to display the Format ribbon.

3. On the ribbon, click either the Solid Transparency button or the Gradient Transparency button . The Object Format dialog box appears with the transparency options displayed.

4. If you want a dynamic preview, click the Preview button.

5. Drag the Transparency Control slider (on the ribbon or on the Object Format dialog box) to adjust the transparency

or

On the Object Format dialog box, enter a percentage from 0 (opaque) to 100 (completely transparent).

6. If you chose Gradient Transparency, set the gradient options as needed.

7. Click the Apply button when you have finished.

If no object is selected, you set a new default transparency.