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Paragraphs, Tabs and Lists

2009-01-31 09:54 AM iPhotoWord Processing | Beginner | Intermediate
I wrote a blog entry back in November in which I talked about formatting documents. For that entry I used TextEdit. That entry focuses on the differences between word processing and using a typewriter. I worked with a client this week who uses Pages, a part of Apple’s iWork suite. Since the tools for paragraph setup in Pages are a bit different from those in TextEdit, let’s take a look at the tools in Pages. In the coming weeks I will try to do blog entries about the process in Microsoft Word and even AppleWorks.
I wrote a blog entry back in November in which I talked about formatting documents. For that entry I used TextEdit. That entry focuses on the differences between word processing and using a typewriter. I worked with a client this week who uses Pages, a part of Apple’s iWork suite. Since the tools for paragraph setup in Pages are a bit different from those in TextEdit, let’s take a look at the tools in Pages. In the coming weeks I will try to do blog entries about the process in Microsoft Word and even AppleWorks.

First, lets look at the tools for setting margins.

Left margin tooland Right Margin tool


Notice that while the Right Margin tool is pretty simple, there must be more to that Left Margin tool.

Before we go any further and I forget to mention the Tab tool, lets take a look at it. To make a tab mark, simply click anywhere in the ruler line. However, there are four kinds of tabs. To choose between the different types, just click on a tab mark with the Control key held down.

Tab


The most common type of indent is a paragraph indent. If you read my earlier blog post, you know that indenting should usually happen after composing the document. Highlight the paragraphs to be indented…

Indent paragraphs


Here is a view with arrows to point out the Left Margin tool.

Indent Paragraph


Sometimes you will want to inset a section of text so that it has larger margins than the rest of the text. To do that, drag the entire Left Margin tool to the right and the Right Margin tool to the left.

Indent both margins


In some cases, you will want a hanging indent for a paragraph. In that case you will leave the top rectangle at the left margin and drag the triangle to the right.

Indent a second line


However, this technique is not the one to use to make bulleted or indented lists (in most cases). Instead you will want to use the List Styles in the Styles Drawer. Click on the blue paragraph symbol about the ruler in Pages.

List


I hope these tips help in your word processing projects. If you would like to learn more about word processing with whatever application you use, think about setting up a one hour tutoring session with us at Bob LeVitus Consulting. The cost is $60 and the session takes place in your home, at your computer using our screen sharing software. Just think, a whole hour to get your specific questions answered!

--Pat


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