Linking text blocks in Macromedia

Linking text blocks

You can link fixed-size text blocks to other text blocks or to objects, such as paths, to force text to flow between the linked blocks or objects. Generally, you link text blocks when they contain overflow text (indicated by a dot in the link box). However, you can also link empty or partially filled blocks and then add text.

Three text blocks and a path (triangle)

To create a link:

1.      Use the Pointer tool to select the fixed-size text block that you want to link.

Note: If the originating text block contains overflow text, an indicator dot appears in its link box. You can link blocks with or without overflow text.

2.      Drag from the link box of the originating text block to the inside of another text block or object or onto a path.

A link indicator appears in the link box of the originating text block to indicate that the block is linked. If the originating text block contains overflow text, the text flows into the empty text block, into the object, or onto the path.

3.      Repeat steps 1 and 2 to link additional text blocks or objects. You can link any number of text blocks or objects on a single page or across multiple pages.

To break a link and retain text placement:

1.      Use the Text tool to select the text in a linked text block and choose Edit > Cut.

2.      Use the Pointer tool to drag a link line from the link box of the originating text block to an empty area in the document.

3.      Use the Text tool to place an insertion point in the second text block, and then choose Edit > Paste.

The text remains intact but is no longer linked; it flows back into the last linked text block. The first text block has an empty link box indicating there is no text overflow and no link.

Editing text

You can edit text in FreeHand using various techniques. To edit text onscreen, you select it with the Text tool.

You can check spelling, hyphenate text, use smart quotes, and insert nonprinting characters to control spacing. You can also change type attributes