Here is another quick-but-useful tip for InDesign and QuarkXpress. When you need to set a tab that aligns to the right edge of your text box, don’t waste your time fumbling with manual tab stops. Both InDesign and QuarkXPress have a hidden feature that makes this easy. Just remember these shortcut keys:
InDesign: Shift-Tab
QuarkXPress: Option-Tab
Renamer4Mac makes it easy to rename a large number of files. You just drag files or folders into its window, then adjust what you want to change. As you define your intended changes, Renamer4Mac previews in blue what each new file name will look like. When your file names appear the way you want them, you can apply the changes.
This tool is perfect for designers who find themselves with a folder of files whose names need to be adjusted. For example, adding an identifying name to photos, along with a sequential number. Or changing the names of files for a website to lower case and replacing spaces with underscores.
xScope ($27) is a great utility for Mac-based web and UX (user experience) designers. It provides a number of floating tools for measuring, aligning, and inspecting on-screen graphics.
You have to play with xScope to get a sense of how helpful it is. It has on-screen rulers, floating guides, and a nicely designed screen overlay that shows the usable space for any screen (including new templates for the iPhone). My favorite feature is a new dimensions tool (shown above), which instantly identifies the pixel dimensions of anything on your screen. Link to the movie below for a better sense of how cool this feature is:
Download a free trial of xScope and give it a spin.
Creativetechs is taking a different approach to professional training. We’ve organized our materials into dozens of smaller, bite-sized modules. The results are shorter, focused sessions, which let you get the training you need, without setting aside an entire day away from the office.
Download a PDF of our Training Brochure and see what upcoming workshops catch your eye. Then join us Wednesday and Thursday mornings for the fun:
Creativetechs Training Feb08.pdf
Missed a good one? All our topics are available for one-on-one training. Email training@creativetechs.com or call 206-682-4315 to schedule a personalized training session.
