# Aligning objects with the grid

Captivate contains an optional grid that you can display while working on individual slides in Edit view. The grid enables you to more accurately place and position objects on a slide.

You can also select the Snap to Grid option to have objects placed near grid lines automatically "snap" to the nearest lines.

#### To display the grid in Edit view:

1. Open a Captivate movie.

2. Double-click on any slide to open Edit view.

3. From the View menu, select Show Grid.

The grid, a light pattern of dots, appears on the slide.

#### To use the Snap to grid option:

1. Open a Captivate movie.

2. Double-click on any slide to open Edit view.

3. From the View menu, select Snap to Grid.

4. To test the snap to grid functionality, add an object to the slide, such as a highlight box, and then move the box. As you move the box, it automatically lines up with the grid lines.

#### To change the grid scale:

1. Open a Captivate movie.

2. From the Options menu, select Preferences.

3. In Grid size, enter a new number. Larger numbers display fewer grid lines; smaller numbers display many grid lines for more precise object placement.

Tips:
The x (horizontal) and y (vertical) coordinates of the mouse are automatically displayed in the lower-right corner of the Captivate project window as you move the mouse. Knowing exact coordinates can help you place objects in a precise location on a slide.
You can move objects using only the keyboard. Select an object and press an arrow key on your keyboard to move 1 pixel at a time. To move an item by the number of pixels defined in the grid, select an object and press Control+arrow key.
The Show Grid and Snap to Grid options can also be accessed by clicking on the Options menu and selecting Preferences.