Using tables and layers for layout

Converting between layers and tables

Create your layout using layers, then convert the layers to tables so that your layout can be viewed in most browsers.

To convert layers to a table:

1	Choose Modify > Convert > Layers to Table.
2	In the dialog box that appears, select the desired layout options.
	Most Accurate creates a cell for every layer, plus any additional cells that are necessary to preserve the space between layers.
	Smallest: Collapse Empty Cells specifies that the layers' edges should be aligned if they are positioned within the specified number of pixels. If you select this option, the resulting table will have fewer empty rows and columns, but may not match your layout precisely.
	Use Transparent GIFs fills the table's last row with transparent GIFs. This ensures that the table is displayed with the same column widths in all browsers.
	When this option is on, you cannot edit the resulting table by dragging its columns. When it is off, the resulting table will not contain transparent GIFs, but its appearance may vary slightly in different browsers.
	Center on Page centers the resulting table on the page.
	If this option is off, the table is left aligned.
3	Select the desired layout tools and grid options, and click OK.

To convert a table to layers:

1	Choose Modify > Convert > Tables to Layers.
2	In the dialog box that appears, select the desired options.
	Show Grid and Snap to Grid let you use a grid to help position layers. See Snapping layers to the grid.
	Prevent Layer Overlaps constrains the positions of layers when they are created, moved, and resized so that they don't overlap. See Preventing layer overlaps.
	Show Layers panel displays the Layers panel. See About the Layers panel.
3	Click OK.

The tables are converted to layers. Empty cells are not converted to layers unless they have a background color.

Note: Page elements that you placed outside of tables in the page are also placed in layers.