AutoHotKey macros for Storyline and PowerPoint

Align objects and change stack order in Storyline and PowerPoint using your number keypad.

As any experienced Storyline user can tell you, the align and distribute tools in Storyline (like “align left” or “move to front”) are used constantly.  Sadly, it also takes several mouse clicks to access these tools, which (when aggregated over time) proves to be a huge time suck.

My solution is to use the macro language AutoHotKey to map these commands to the number keypad. I’ve placed the script below, feel free to grab a copy. To use the macro, you’ll need to download and install AutoHotKey.  You’ll also have to use the Windows Spy program (bundled in AutoHotKey) to find the akh_class of your Storyline install, then modify the code.

You can purchase blank keyboard stickers similar to the ones shown from 4Keyboard.com.  We labeled ours with a Sharpie, and (for the white ‘group/group all’ button) acrylic paint.

Photo of a keyboard number pad with custom stickers. The hand-drawn icons on the sticker indicate the new functions of the keys, which all relate to aligning and re-ordering objects in Storyline.
Productivity shortcut! This custom number pad helps when aligning and re-ordering objects in Storyline, PowerPoint, and Adobe Captivate. AutoHotKey macros power the numpad.