Layout (Edexcel IGCSE ICT)

Layout

How can you edit the layout of a document?

• Editing the layout changes the overall look and feel of a document

• Layout relates to how content is positioned on a page

• There are many different way this can be achieved, such as using:

  • Headings

  • Sub-headings

  • Lists

  • Templates

  • Orientation (portrait & landscape)

  • Breaks

Headings & sub-headings

• Make documents consistent

• Predetermined styles can be applied (size, colour, font style etc.)

• Allows for the use of auto index creation

Lists

• Present information in a clear, concise and easy to read way

• Allows users to find key points without being bogged down by paragraphs

Templates

• Streamlines document production, saving time

• Pre-set formatting included with templates

• Help create a consistent look and feel

Orientation

• Weather the page is vertical (portrait) or horizontal (landscape)

Breaks

• Breaks are a method of dividing information into manageable chunks to control the layout and organisation of a document

• Breaks can be used in:

  • Printed materials

  • Websites and applications

Page breaks

• A page break forces content to start on a new page even when there is still space available.

• Common uses include:

  • Starting a new chapter or section

  • Separating graphics and tables from surrounding text to improve readability

  • Ensuring all page elements appear at the top of a page

Column breaks

• A column break divides a page into multiple columns to suit specific content types

• Common uses include:

  • Creating a newsletter or brochure

  • Formatting content for easier viewing on screen

Section breaks

• A section break creates independent sections that can be formatted differently

• Common uses include:

  • Changing page orientation for a specific section

  • Applying different column layouts in the same document

Headers & footers

What is the purpose of headers & footers?

• Headers and footers are areas at the top (header) and bottom (footer) of documents that can be used to help identify them

• Headers and footers can contain:

  • Document name

  • Author

  • Company logo

• Headers and footers only need to be added once and are replicated on each page, saving time and reducing the chance of data errors

Automated objects

• Headers and footers can also contain automated objects to enhance the professionalism of a document

• Examples of automated objects include:

  • Date/time

  • Page numbering

  • Total number of pages

Aligning contents

• The contents of headers and footers can be aligned consistently within a document

• They can be aligned to the:

  • Left margin

  • Right margin

  • Centred within margins