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One of the key concepts which any user of QuarXPress 8 needs to master is the distinction between item and content. Basically, an item is an object or container while the contents of an item may either be text, graphics or none. Understanding this fact and being aware of which level you need to be working at to carry out a certain operation can help new users to avoid a good deal of confusion and frustration.

There are four types of item which one can create in QuarkXPress: picture boxes, text boxes, path text, lines and tables. Text boxes and picture boxes are both containers and QuarXPress allows you to convert one of them into the other. Simply right-click and choose Content then Graphic, Text or None.

An example of this difference is the use of Content and Item tools. They are the first two tools on the toolbar and the two that are most frequently used. The Item tool is used for manipulating items. Typically, one one selects this tool when you want to move items around and when you want to work with groups of items. When this tool is active, it is not possible to manipulate the contents of items. Thus, for example you cannot select the text in a text box or move a picture around inside a picture box. Naturally, lines are never containers, so it doesn’t usually make any difference which tool is selected when you want to manipulate a line.

Tables in QuarkXPress have three levels: the item level, the cells level and the text level. Basically, as far as QuarkXPress is concerned, a table is simply a series of text and/or picture boxes stitched together. Each cell is basically a box which can have the same content choices as other boxes: graphic, text or none. If the Item tool is selected, you can only work with the table as a whole. However, when the Content tool is active, you can work either with the contents of an individual cell or you can drag across a range of cells to work at the cell level.

Grouping items is really flexible in QuarkXPress. Basically, if you click on any item in a group using the Item tool the program highlights all the items in the group. However, if you click on an item which is part of a group using the Content tool, the group is ignored and you can still edit the contents of that item. In fact, you can even move the item by holding down the Control key and dragging it.

Another important distinction between Item and Content can be found in the menu: Item-related commands are all in the Item menu, while command relating to the contents of items is found in the Style menu.

The author is a trainer and developer with Macresource Computer Training, an independent computer training company offering QuarXPress Classes in London and throughout the UK.

The author is a training consultant with OnsiteTrainingcourses.Com, an independent computer training company offering QuarkXPress Classes at their central London training centre.

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Internet programmers have adopted PHP web development as a de-facto standard. PHP’s power lies in the ability to generate complete web pages or parts of pages as HTML code that can be rendered by browsers. This as-requested HTML can contain up-to-date information that static HTML coded pages cannot deliver. It is almost like the web server has an almost infinite number of HTML pages.

HTML can store tiny snippets of data on the user’s system for retrieval later. With PHP web development techniques programmers can use that bit of stored data as a key to information stored on a server-based database. This information is then used to generate a page customized for each user and each visit. This power of PHP web development is responsible for the interesting and user-friendly internet of today.

Using PHP web development, programmers are constantly finding new ways to interact with users. Users become regular visitors to dynamic sites, knowing that each visit will provide new and interesting content. Web-based businesses rely heavily on PHP web development to keep an active user base. Active users mean more revenue – either through advertising or direct sales.

With web-based businesses popping up constantly most of the user interaction relies on PHP web development. Customers can check databases to see if a particular product is available, place an order make a payment and arrange shipment – all with out any human involvement. Orders are recorded, databases are updated and verification emails sent to customers thanks to PHP web development.

Since PHP web development is so deeply intertwined in the recent growth of the internet the technology will exist for years to come. PHP is a very active and evolving language. New functionalities are being incorporated constantly and new technologies are embraced by the PHP community. PHP web development will be a vital component in future web activities worldwide.

Emerging concepts such cloud-based applications are already part of the PHP toolset. Integrated development tools for PHP web development have appeared on the scene making PHP web development even easier.

Visit the Macresource Computer Training website for courses on PHP and MySQL in London and UK wide or call 0800 1950 502.

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The main challenge in CSS web page layout is positioning blocks of content in different parts of the browser window. The key HTML element used to achieve this is the DIV element (short for DIVISION). The DIV element is pure vanilla: it has no inherent properties or sub-elements (unlike the TABLE element which was originally used for web page layout). It is a block element which can contain any web page content, including other DIVs.

Typically, when using CSS for page layout, related elements within the HTML page are placed within the same DIV. For example, there might be a DIV containing a logo or banner, another containing navigation links, another containing the main content of the page, and so on. Another common practice is to place all DIVs inside an outer or wrapper DIV which acts as the overall container for the page content. Key attributes such as width and alignment can then be applied to this wrapper.

The main DIVs that are being used for page layout will normally be given a unique ID; for example, div ‘id=”leftCol”‘. IDs can only occur once within an HTML page and can therefore be referred to in the CSS code; for example ‘#leftCol…’. Some subordinate DIVs (i.e. those contained within the main DIVs) will share attributes with several other DIVs on the page. These will be defined as a class in both the HTML page; e.g. ‘div class=imageLeft’ and in the CSS style sheet; e.g. ‘.imageLeft…’.

If you are using a wrapper DIV, as is usually the case, you will generally set its width to the overall width you want your page content to occupy. The width that you choose will depend on the typical monitor resolution used by your anticipated audience. The lowest common denominator is probably 800 x 600 pixels but many designers are now assuming 1024 x 768. Bear in mind that these pixel dimensions represent the entire screen. The actual web content will occupy only some of this. For this reason, designers usually use a width of 760 pixels when targeting the smaller resolution and 950 pixels when targeting the larger.

In CSS, there are two basic ways of specifying the width you want your content to occupy: using a fixed measurement or using percentages. Using pixels to specify the width you want your content to occupy offers you more control over your design but it can be inconvenient for visitors to your website. If their monitors are larger than your specified width, there will be a lot of wasted space. Those whose monitors are not as wide as your content will have to constantly scroll left and right to read your pages and who can blame them if they lose patience and go elsewhere. Percentage-based design is often referred to as liquid in that the content will simply readjust to fill as much of the available space as you specify.

The writer of this article is a developer and trainer with Macresource Computer Training, an independent computer training company offering ASP.NET Classes in London and throughout the UK.

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Microsoft PowerPoint training can be used so that you do not fall into any bad habits using the software. PowerPoint is a type of software that many people learn how to use on their own. In just a little while you can begin making your own slides. The software also has its own set of tutorials that you can use to begin.

PowerPoint presentations are so popular because they can be very interactive. This means that your audience will remember your information and actually stay interested in the topic. PowerPoint is used by experts in their fields as well as students and you really only need basic computer skills to use the program.

A resource that many don’t think to look for is the many updates that are available for Microsoft PowerPoint. Not only will these updates help with any problems in the software but they may also contain important directions on how to properly use certain functions. There is plenty of training available no matter what you want to learn how to do.

There are many Microsoft PowerPoint training courses available in the form of books and as online courses. As with anything online you need to be aware of where the information is coming from as many free courses may simply be trying to market a specific program or text. The best information that is unbiased is available at sites specifically dedicated to PowerPoint.

While you can do a lot training by yourself going to a seminar or course can be a great idea if you want to get a group of people or a team all at the same skill level.

However if you are looking to train up a team of individuals then getting an instructor or enrolling them in a PowerPoint training seminar can be much better than an online course. In this way you know that everyone is getting the information they need to create PowerPoint presentations. This may be a little more expensive than an online course but the quality of information they are receiving will be much better.

Are you looking for with an independent computer training company offering Microsoft PowerPoint 2007 Classes, as well as Microsoft Word training at their central London training centre.

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Adobe Photoshop training can make all the difference between spending hours fiddling with images and becoming frustrated and you being able to produce professional and creative images for your website and all your other graphic design needs.

Adobe Photoshop can allow you to refine images and create your own logos and other graphics, but to get the very best out of this software some Adobe photoshop training is necessary.

Fortunately, there are websites that can offer you Adobe Photoshop training and can school you in the techniques that will produce the best results in the most time efficient manner.

With Adobe Photoshop training you can learn to digitally alter images and create your own graphics. Basic skills that you can learn through Adobe Photoshop training include: how to change a subject’s hair or eye color, working with layers to create interesting and realistic effects and blending modes.

Once you have the basics down pat, intermediate and advanced training can teach you how to enhance digital photography, advanced layer techniques, creating links with an image, compositing and typographic design.

Once you have mastered Adobe Photoshop you will not only be able to produce fantasic visual pieces for your own needs, but you will be able to freelance and earn a substantial side income. There are many people all around the world that make a good living freelancing out their Photoshop skills.

Completing an Adobe Photoshop training program you will be able to independently create your own graphics and produce professional images and shots. Some training in the software will not only save you time, it will save you a great deal of frustration, produce dazzling results. With your new skills you will either be able to earn more money or save yourself money by doing the work yourself.

The writer of this article is a training consultant with an independent computer training company offering Adobe Photoshop classes as well as Adobe Acrobat training in London and throughout the UK.

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Learning is an ongoing thing that people do throughout their lives. Computer skills are in very high demand. This could explain why more people are looking into adobe photoshop training then ever before.

Numerous options are around for people to learn the skills that they require. Tutorials are abundant on the internet and can be a very good way for some people to learn what they need. A lot of the tutorials can be found at no charge for people that want to use them. It may take a bit of time to find the one that is right for you but will be worth it in the long run if this is the way you find you learn the best.

Other people find that using a book has been a big help for them when it comes to adobe photoshop training. There are a lot of books on this subject that can help you develop the skills that you need. Many of these books have tutorials that can be followed that allow you to use hands on techniques when applying the changes to a certain project

Some people need to have someone show them how things are done. Having a person that is proficient with using adobe photoshop is a great way to do this. This is where returning to school can be the right thing for you. The teacher’s are taught different techniques to help you learn the skills that you need.

Tutors are one more thought to consider. This is a way that people can get the help they need without any other distractions. This allows you to have a person with you to help you through the processes that are encountered. Tutors do cost a bit of money, but the rewards that you can reap by using them are well worth the investment that you make.

No matter what it is that you want when it comes to adobe photoshop training there are many choices that are available. Taking some time to look at what your specific needs are can be the best thing a person can do when deciding on a route to take.

The writer of this article is a training consultant with an independent computer training company offering Photoshop training courses as well as Adobe Acrobat training at their central London training centre.

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There are many ways that a person can get Microsoft Powerpoint Training. There are training programs available on the Microsoft website that will teach an individual how to create a Powerpoint presentation which are free and very helpful. If an individual does not want to spend time working through this method there are other ways to learn to use Microsoft Powerpoint.

There are many colleges and training centers that provide training to individuals seeking Microsoft Powerpoint Training. The purpose of these courses is to provide individuals with the basics of using the program so that they can return to their home or business and experiment with the program. In most of the classes the special functions that are taught are those that are used most by people who use Powerpoint on a regular basis.

Sitting with someone who has used the Powerpoint program for a long period of time is a great way to get effective Microsoft Powerpoint Training. These people know many different functions that a person who does not use the program on a regular basis would not know. They can teach an individual how to get faster results or produce more effective presentations in fewer keystrokes.

If one starts using the program and finds that they need assistance there are access points within the program that will provide short tutorials on a specific function or feature. An individual can click on that icon and be directed to a detailed explanation and walk-through to make the function or feature operate properly.

Many books have been written that provide more exhaustive Microsoft Powerpoint Training. One can purchase a book and learn many of the secrets that are used by programmers and developers that are not made public. By using some simple techniques one is able to create more dynamic presentations.

Microsoft Powerpoint Training does not end. There is always something new to learn with the program and a new method for creating exciting presentation, slideshows, brochures, and pamphlets. When an individual gets to a point where they feel they have learned all that they want to know they can stop.

Do you need an IT training company that can offer you Microsoft PowerPoint 2007 Classes, as well as Microsoft Excel training at their central London training centre.

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Are you a graphic designer or working from home on your own design projects? If you are not using InDesign, you may be missing out on features which make it easier to design and publish your work electronically. However, InDesign training may be necessary for you to be able to properly and fully utilize the different features of this versatile program.

The first thing to consider is which version of the program the course teaches. The most current version of InDesign is CS4. There are a number of new features which make it different than its predecessors and so learning on the most up to date version is important, especially if you will be working in the design industry itself.

If you will be using InDesign, you need to decide where you want to take your training, and what your learning style is. You can take courses in person at a local college or you can take courses online. Adobe, the makers of InDesign and Creative Suite have a website where you can find listings for courses and tutorials.

If you want to take a course at a local college, look for a college that has a school of graphic design attached to it. This should mean that the instructors will be up to date and familiar with the program. The instructor should ideally be someone who uses the program on a daily basis because they will, in theory, have a better idea of the program’s capabilities. The last thing you want is to take the course from someone who does not know the program well.

If you are looking for an InDesign training course and you have no background in design, it may not be a bad idea to brush up on your knowledge before taking a design program course. This is because knowing the elements of good design will help you use the program properly and it can help you stand the best chance of succeeding. Why? If you do not understand what goes into a good design or what the design process is, you may find it more difficult to submit projects and assignments that are graded well. It may be difficult for the teacher to tell whether you are having problems with the program or the design process that went into laying out and formatting that particular piece.

Since the newest InDesign program has a number of unique features, you want to look for a course that is teaching the CS4 version of the program. New features include a live preflight feature, which alerts you to production problems as they occur. This can save you the time of going back and fixing errors after the design has been completed. You can also now use SmartGuide technology as well as new spread rotation features which were not a part of InDesign in CS3.

Professional development is a great thing to complete. Learning new skills and programs that are related to your job can be a wonderful way to make you a more valuable employee. It is not difficult to find a course which teaches InDesign and the time may be well worth it in the end.

Author is a developer and trainer with an independent computer training company offering Adobe InDesign training courses as well as Photoshop training in London and throughout the UK.

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After successfully generating your PDF file, you will quite frequently need to manipulate the pages within the document without wishing to have to return to the original pre-PDF version. You may for example need to update, remove or add pages. Acrobat contains a number of menu commands and other techniques for working with pages. There are two ways of working with pages in Acrobat: firstly, you can use the commands in the Document menu and, secondly, you can use the Pages panel. The pages panel contains its own panel menu offering all of the page manipulation commands found in the Document menu as well as other useful commands and techniques.

Acrobat contains four main menu commands designed for manipulating pages within a PDF document: Insert, Extract, Replace and Delete. These commands are found both in the Document menu and in the Pages panel menu. The Document menu also contains one extra page manipulation command: Split Document.

The Insert command is a sub-menu offering two options: From File and From Clipboard. If you choose From File, you are presented with a browse dialog where you can navigate to the appropriate file and double-click its name. The Insert Pages dialog then appears, allowing you to specify where the incoming file will be inserted: either before or after a given page. If you choose the Clipboard option, the contents of the clipboard will be converted into a one page PDF document and inserted at the specified position.

The Extract command is used to either copy or move either a single page or a range of pages into a separate new file. When the command is used, you can specify the page range to be extracted and whether or not the extracted pages should be deleted from the original document. Thus, the Extract command can be used to split an original document into several new and smaller documents. However, if the document has bookmarks, the Split document is more useful, since it will perform the operation in one step.

Unlike the Extract Pages dialog, the Split Document dialog offers the option Top Level Bookmarks. This causes Acrobat to use each bookmark as the signal of where each of the new documents should start and end. You also have the option of placing the newly created PDF documents into a separate folder and using the bookmark names as the names of the new documents.

With the Replace command, you can choose an incoming PDF file and then specify which page or pages it should replace. Thus, it is equivalent to inserting a document and then deleting the pages which it is designed to replace.

And, of course, the Delete command simply allows you to choose a range of pages which will be permanently deleted from the document. This command cannot be undone; so it is probably a good idea to ensure that a backup version of the document exists before using it.

The writer of this article is a developer and trainer with an independent computer training company offering Adobe Acrobat Classes at their central London training centre.

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One of the easiest ways to understand Ajax is to get an idea of what you can achieve with it, what it can do for your web development. Principally, Ajax can help you develop web pages and websites that function and respond like desktop applications. The Ajax technology achieves this by working away in the background, grabbing data from a server and then displaying it as it’s needed. As internet access speeds continue to increase, there will come a time when the user will not be able to perceive any difference between the performance of a web application and that of regular desktop software.

So, if you are already engaged in web development but have not started to delve into the world of Ajax, now is a good time to seriously consider finding some form of Ajax training.

Ajax-powered webpages differ from classic server-side pages in one important regard: with the classic page, to retrieve data from the server, the user normally has to submit information via the form and then wait for the page to reload and display a set of search results. With Ajax, interaction with the server can take place in a much more subtle manner, often without a form having to be submitted or the page having to reload.

The term Ajax is short for Asynchronous JavaScript and XML and Ajax involves the use of several web technologies. First of all, we have HTML and CSS, the raw material of which web pages are constructed. HTML defines the structure of the page content while CSS controls the layout and formatting of those elements. Next, we have XML data sources residing on a server. XML is a neutral standard for describing and storing information. Then there is JavaScript, the main scripting language used to add interactivity to web pages, which is used to fetch data from XML sources and use it to update the web page.

The XMLHttpRequest object plays a key role in the way that JavaScript implements Ajax. It is used to send requests to the server without the need of refreshing the page. The key feature of this process is that it is asynchronous. This means that when a request is made for data from the server, the browser doesn’t need to wait for the data to come back. Therefore the page continues to function and when the data has been retrieved, the necessary parts of the page are updated.

If you are a web developer looking to expand you skill-set, look no further than Ajax. Ajax training will definitely enable you to take your web development expertise to a new level.

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