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• • October 1, 2012 at 8:42 am #63269
    Chuck Nigash

    Member

    Anyone want to take a crack at explaining best practices of using the Align Panel? I can never explain the principles of what InDesign uses to align.

    For instance, 2 objects overlap. You want the smaller one 1p down from the top of the larger. Align > Distribute Top Edges > Use Spacing (1p0) … I find that you have to click 3-4 different alignment buttons before getting the result. InDesign seems to have a hidden understanding for knowing that you want the top edges 1p apart.

    What's the best way to understand this? My guess: in this case the objects selected have to be within each other. But with each tool (button), there are probably good rules to live by, uh click by.

  • October 4, 2012 at 4:29 am #63289
    David Blatner

    Keymaster

    This is a big topic. Great idea for a blog post.

    In this image, which I think describes your example, you would turn on the Use Spacing checkbox in the Distribute Spacing section, type in 1p, and then click the Distribute Vertical Spacing:

    

    If you don't see Distribute Spacing, choose “More Options” in the panel menu.

    In general, Distribute Spacing means “adjust the space between the objects.”

  • October 4, 2012 at 9:30 am #63296
    Chuck Nigash

    Member

    Xactly! And while we have touched on one, this could be button by button.

    I really should have checked my Real World CS6 first to see if it's laid out in The Bible. But maybe I just like seeing Blatner post at a whopping 4:29 a.m. !!! David, we are on the same coast — I'm hoping you posted from the East. :-)

  • October 4, 2012 at 9:34 am #63297
    David Blatner

    Keymaster

    Thanks, but sadly not… jet lag from my recent trip to a conference in Europe. But it's nice and quiet before the kids get up in the morning, too. :)

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