Chapter 4. Interface Fundamentals

IN THIS CHAPTER

  • Getting started in Flash CS3

  • Accessing learning and reference resources

  • Getting to know the fundamental Flash interface: What's new in Flash CS3

  • Saving and loading custom Workspace Layouts

  • Creating custom keyboard shortcut sets

  • Using the Tools panel and shortcut keys

  • Adding or moving tools

This chapter gives you a tour of the Flash workspace and the various methods for organizing and navigating your documents. We define fundamental features of the authoring environment, but in some cases, defer the explanation of more-complex functionality to later chapters. This chapter orients new users to the program and introduces experienced users to some of the new Flash CS3 features.

Tip

The confusion caused by splitting Flash into two different versions (Basic and Professional) is now a thing of the past. With an upgrade to Flash CS3 you gain all the features and tools that were previously available in Flash 8 Professional along with improvements and updates brought to you by Adobe. Everyone using Flash CS3 will be on the same playing field.

Getting Started

When you walk into a studio, the first thing you need to know is where to find your tools. Although you might have an idea of where to start looking based on experience, nothing improves your workflow more than being able to reach for something without hesitation. This kind of familiarity and comfort in a workspace is a prerequisite for the mastery of any craft.

Fortunately, many of the features of ...

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