Tips and Tricks
02.21.13
Shortcuts to Success: Make a Grid in Seconds!
SPD-U SHORTCUT OF THE WEEK
Make a Grid (CS5 or later)
drag to draw an object with the shape or frame tool, then use arrows to create rows and columns
This one will blow your mind! If you've ever needed to build a grid, you know how tedious it is to get the alignment and spacing consistent. Well, with this shortcut, you can draw a grid in about 10 seconds: draw a rectangle, and before you release your mouse, use the up, down, left, and right arrows to add columns and rows. Don't believe it? Check out the video after the jump.
Here's how it's done:
- Draw a rectangle (or square) with the rectangle shape or frame tool to the height and width of your finished grid, but don't release your mouse when you're done.
- Use the arrow keys to construct the grid.
Rows: Press the up arrow to add each, or the down arrow to subtract each.
Columns: Press the right arrow to add each, or the left arrow to subtract each
. - Release your mouse, and you're done!
Click to see it in action!
HOT TIP: This also works with other shapes, and graphic frames, which you can then place images in.
PS: If you haven't done it yet, download a free poster with our first 25 Shortcuts to Success!
Got a favorite keyboard shortcut you'd like to share with everyone? Email it to us at spdstudentoutreach@gmail.com and we'll include it in our series, along with your own commentary if you'd like.
This week's shortcut brought to you by Joseph Caserto.