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Using Page Layout Software
From Jacci Howard Bear, About.com Guide
Page layout software differs from word processing and other types of software although there are similiaries. Learn about the most common tools and features of software used in desktop publishing. Although each software program is different, they share common ways of operating even if the menus are in different places and don't always have the same name.
Page layout software differs from word processing and other types of software although there are similiaries. Learn about the most common tools and features of software used in desktop publishing. Although each software program is different, they share common ways of operating even if the menus are in different places and don't always have the same name.
Common Keyboard Shortcuts for Desktop Publishing
Speed up your work by using common keyboard shortcuts.
Methods for Learning How to Use Page Layout Software
Desktop publishing software doesn't work in the same was as word processing software. It's different from graphics software. From setting up a basic document to complicated arrangements of text and graphics, learn how to use desktop publishing software by following this step-by-step plan.
Using Style Sheets in Desktop Publishing
Style sheets are a feature of page layout programs such as Adobe PageMaker, Adobe InDesign, and QuarkXPress. They allow the designer to make quick changes to text throughout a document. They are especially useful in long or multi-page documents such as annual reports and newsletters or anytime you'll be making frequent changes (such as when...
Default/Typical Guideline Colors
Some programs let you change the colors if you prefer something a little brighter, but there are three common colors for the guides and grid lines in desktop publishing software.
Faster Document Formatting
Sometimes it is tempting to just apply formatting as you go along thinking that it's much faster. But taking the time to identify the elements that make up your publication and setting up individual styles in advance can actually make it easier to make changes.
Learn How to Use Desktop Publishing Software
Are we shortchanging ourselves by not getting to know our software just a little bit better? Find ways to approach learning more about using our software.
Set Up Guides in Desktop Publishing Documents
Guides are non-printing lines that aid in flow and alignment of text and positioning of graphics during page layout. Although each program has its own terminology, there are three basic types of guides and two placement options.
Setting Default Preferences in Page Layout Software
Default settings are timesavers. Unfortunately, if the default settings don't fit the way you work, you may find yourself repeatedly customizing each document individually before you can get started. It's time to reset your defaults.
Toolbox Overview for Desktop Publishing Software
Each page layout program may have its own approach to text and graphics tasks but there are four basic tools found in almost all professional and many consumer level desktop publishing software programs. Learn what they are and how they work.
Use the Pasteboard in Desktop Publishing Software
Many page layout programs use a pasteboard analogy.
Use the Zoom Tool in Desktop Publishing Software
How many different ways are there to change the view and zoom in or zoom out with your software? In even the simplest documents you will probably want to view the page from a variety of perspectives.
What is a text frame in desktop publishing software?
All objects placed on the page or the pasteboard in a desktop publishing software application have a sometimes invisible bounding box or frame around the object - the name used by the software application may vary.
How and Why to Clean Up Your Layout
When it comes to page layout, it's not just about how it looks -- it's about how you achieve that look. Discover what it means to create a clean digital file.
Choosing a Desktop Publishing Book Tips
These aren't hard-and-fast rules or formulas but they are tried-and-true guidelines that hold true most of the time when trying to choose a book on desktop publishing or software.