Working with Multiple Objects in a Document

Working with Multiple Objects in a Document

A document typically contains multiple objects. It might have a sampler, a case table, a plot, and a text object. There are two modes for working with multiple objects: Auto-Tile Layout and Scrolling-Overlap Layout. Each has advantages and drawbacks. By default, a document is in Auto-Tile Layout. To change the layout type,

In Auto-Tile Layout, there are no scroll bars, and all objects appear on the visible screen. Additionally, these objects are prevented from overlapping. As you move an object around or make it larger, it pushes other objects out of the way to make room. When an object being pushed comes up against the edge of the document, it will be squished smaller as you continue to push on it. If you move the object away that has been pushing it, it will try to resume its original size and location.  The best way to get a sense of the rules being followed is to add multiple objects to a document and start dragging them around to see what happens.

In Scrolling-Overlap Layout, the document has scroll bars and thus can be much larger than what is visible on the screen. You can freely move objects anywhere in this mode, including on top of other objects. (This was the only layout option in TinkerPlots 1.0.)

We have found Auto-Tile Layout especially helpful to new users who will often lose objects in the Scrolling-Overlap Layout, by placing other objects on top of them. When you have many objects, however, you may find it easier to work by switching to Scrolling-Overlap mode.