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Moving an element to the library converts it to a symbol. Enter symbol edit mode by clicking the + button in the library. A graphic can be placed in a symbol by entering symbol edit mode and importing the symbol into the symbol stage. For example the alpha/opacity of a bitmap cannot be keyframed for dissolves but a symbol can be. A bitmap (any imported graphic file) is not as controllable as a symbol. In this chapter, we will be looking at how to make and use symbols, as well as a consideration of the three symbol types and their uses.Ī symbol is a reusable image, animation, graphic, movie clip, sound file, font or button that resides in the library. They help keep file size down, aid in organization, and allow you to use ActionScript to manipulate their appearance. Symbols are really the foundation of interactive project development.
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