Layout (Edexcel IGCSE Ict)

Spec point — 6.1.4

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

Using headings and sub-headings

Lists

• Present information in a clear, concise and easy to read way
• Allows users to find key points without being bogged down by paragraphs

Adding lists in a document

Templates

• Streamlines document production, saving time
• Pre-set formatting included with templates
• Help create a consistent look and feel

Creating a new document using templates

Orientation

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

Changing the page orientation

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

Adding breaks to a document

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

Spec point — 6.1.4

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