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Creating rows and columns


    By using the Rows & Columns dialog box, you can divide rectangles and text blocks into blocks of rows and columns and precisely change the height, width, and gutter size between rows and columns. The Rows & Columns dialog box can also be used to change the way in which text flows (from left-to-right or right-to-left for both vertical and horizontal text) by clicking the Text Flow buttons.

    It is also possible to create rows and columns of linked type containers. (See Linking type containers.)

    TipBecause the rows and columns created are simply graphic objects unless they contain type, you can also use the Rows & Columns dialog box to create rectangles. Select an existing rectangle and divide it into multiple rectangles using the dialog box.

    In addition, using the Rows & Columns dialog box is a fast way to create guides for laying out artwork. (See Using guides.)

To divide a rectangular graphic object or type container into rows and columns:

  1. Using the selection tool  the selection tool , select a rectangle or type container. If the selected object is not rectangular, it is converted into rows and columns based on the object's rectangular bounding box.
  2. Choose Type > Rows & Columns.
  3. Enter the number of columns you want in the Number (Columns) text box, and the number of rows you want in the Number (Rows) text box. You can either enter the number in the text boxes or use the buttons on the sides of the text boxes to increase or decrease the values. The dialog box adjusts the column-width and row-height values to fill the selected text box.
  4. Change the dimensions of the column width, row height, column gutter, row gutter, or overall width and height by entering a new value in the corresponding text box or by using the buttons to increase or decrease the values.
  5. Do any of the following:
    • To change the direction of vertical or horizontal text flow from left-to-right or right-to-left, click the Text Flow buttons.
    • To preview the effect, select Preview.
    • To add path guides along the row and column edges, select Add Guides.
  6. Click OK.