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The Report Composer and Page Composer are great features that allow you to create fully customizable reports. With many functions and tools within the Composer, it can be very valuable to understand how best to use the feature.
In this article, we will discuss the various tips and shortcuts that you can use to help you become a more efficient and productive user of the Composers.
Use the Alignment Tools:
If you have multiple objects on the Report Composer canvas, it's important that they are all aligned properly. The gridlines on the canvas can help with making sure the objects are aligned. Additionally, you can use the vertical and horizontal alignment tool to make sure objects are aligned when clicking and moving an object. The vertical and horizontal alignments work within and across all design areas.
In the example below, we are aligning objects to have the same top line and distance between all of the objects.
In the example below, we try to align the column header titles with the objects in the design area for each foursome.
Using a combination of the gridlines and the alignment tools, you can ensure that all of your objects are perfectly aligned.
Move Objects with your Keyboard:
As an alternative to moving objects on your canvas with your mouse, you can also move the objects using the arrows on your keyboard. Click on the object (to select it), then use the arrows on your keyboard to move the object.
If you'd like to move the object quicker, use "Shift + Arrows" (as shown below).
Quick Delete Objects:
While you have the option to "Delete Item" on the left, you may find it easier to select the object on the canvas and click "Backspace" or "Delete" (as shown below).
Quickly Select Multiple Objects:
When designing a report with many objects, you may find that you want to move, remove, or send to front/back multiple objects at once. You can do this by creating a "selectable area" with the mouse (which automatically selects all the objects in that area). In the example below, multiple objects are selected and moved.
You can also select multiple objects by using "Shift + Command" and selecting the objects. In the example below, multiple objects are being moved on the canvas.
If you'd like multiple objects to be permanently grouped, select the objects, then click "Group" on the left.
Search for Data Fields:
It's a great benefit to have so many possible data fields to add to a report. However, you may find it difficult to find the one you're are looking for when browsing the list. To find the desired data field quicker, use the search function (as shown below).
