Set up your workspace

First, you'll open the start file for the lesson and set up your workspace to use an optimal layout for taking lessons.

1. To open your start file, in Flash select File > Open. Then do one of the following:
   • If you're using a Windows 2000 or XP operating system, browse to <boot drive>\Documents and Settings\<username>\Local Settings\Application Data\Macromedia\Flash MX 2004\<language>\Configuration\ HelpPanel\HowDoI\BasicFlash\start_files and double-click interactivity_start.fla.

     Note: If the Application Data folder is hidden, you'll need to change your Windows Explorer settings to see the folder.

   • If you're using a Windows 98 operating system, browse to <boot drive>\Windows\Application Data\Macromedia\Flash MX 2004\<language>\ Configuration\HelpPanel\HowDoI\BasicFlash\start_files and double-click interactivity_start.fla.
   • If you're using a Macintosh operating system, browse to <Macintosh HD>/Applications/Macromedia Flash MX 2004/First Run/HelpPanel/HowDoI/BasicFlash/start_files and double-click interactivity_start.fla.

   Note: The BasicActionScript\finished_files folder contains completed versions of lesson FLA files, for your reference.

   The document opens in the Flash authoring environment.

2. Select File > Save As and save the document with a new name, in the same folder, to preserve the original start file.

   As you complete this lesson, remember to save your work frequently.

3. Select Window > Panel Sets > Training Layout to configure your workspace.
4. In the Stage View pop-up menu, in the upper right of the Timeline, select Show Frame to view both the Stage and the work area.
5. Click in the work area, away from objects on the Stage, so that no objects are selected.