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Linking type containers


    You can link type containers created with the type tool or the area-type tool. When you link type containers, the text flows from one type container to another to fill in blank areas in one type container. Thus, the text can fill several different objects, such as several columns or several irregular shapes.

    Type flows from one object to another based on the type container's stacking order. Type flows first into the backmost object in the stacking order and continues to the next object in the stacking order. The most recently created object is frontmost. (See Stacking objects.)

    The following options are available when working with linked type containers:

    • You can change the order in which type flows by changing the stacking order of type containers using the Send to Front and Send to Back commands. You can adjust the stacking order before or after linking type.
    • If you are working with type containers and you run out of room in a container, you can create a copy of the container for overflow type.
    • You can also unlink type containers to change their stacking order without affecting the flow of type. Unlinking does not return the type to its original object and does not reflow the text. To return it to its original object, you must cut and paste the type. If you want to delete a single or unlinked type container without deleting the type within it, copy and paste the text elsewhere, and then delete the container.

To create a linked copy of a type container:

  1. If you are not already in Outline view, choose View > Outline.
  2. Select the group-selection tool The group-selection tool and position the pointer on the type container. Make sure the baselines aren't selected.
  3. Alt-drag (Windows) or Option-drag (Mac OS) the copy of the container to its new position. Shift-drag to constrain the tool to multiples of 45 degrees.
  4. When the new type container is in position, release the mouse button, and then Shift+Alt (Windows) or Shift+Option (Mac OS). You must release the mouse button before you release the keys.
  5. The type flows from the first type container to the second, and the two type containers are linked.

    You can choose Object > Transform > Transform Again to create additional columns.

To link or unlink type containers:

  1. Select the selection tool  the selection tool .
  2. Drag a marquee through the type containers to be linked, or Shift-click with the selection tool. The baselines should be selected.
  3. Choose either Type > Blocks > Link or Type > Blocks > Unlink.

To remove or replace a linked type container without deleting the type:

  1. Select the group-selection tool The group-selection tool .
  2. Click the edge of the type container you want to remove.
  3. Press Delete. The type container you selected disappears, and the type that it contained flows into the next grouped or linked object in the stacking order.
  4. To add a new type container, create or select a type container, select the group-selection tool, and Shift-click the type container to which you want to link the new type container. Then choose Type > Blocks > Link. The type flows into the new type container.