A system and method is provided for locating graphic elements. In one aspect, areas in a GUI are defined based on a defining shape. For example, a GUI may be divided into portions, where each portion is associated with a defining line and includes the locations in the GUI that are closer to the defining line than any other defining line. When a user selects a location within a defined area, the system may place a graphic element at a location containing all or part of the defined area or its associated defining line. Other graphic elements may be arranged relative to the placed element.