# Listing a movie's objects

In test mode, the List Objects command displays the level, frame, object type (shape, movie clip, or button), target paths, and instance names of movie clips, buttons, and text fields in a hierarchical list. This is especially useful for finding the correct target path and instance name. Unlike the Debugger, the list does not update automatically as the movie plays; you must choose the List Objects command each time you want to send the information to the Output window.

The List Objects command does not list all ActionScript data objects. In this context, an object is considered to be a shape or symbol on the Stage.

To display a list of objects in a movie:

1. If your movie is not running in test mode, choose Control > Test Movie.
2. Choose Debug > List Objects.

A list of all the objects currently on the Stage is displayed in the Output window, as in this example:

    Level #0: Frame=1 Label="Scene_1"
      Button: Target="_level0.myButton"
        Shape:
      Movie Clip: Frame=1 Target="_level0.myMovieClip"
        Shape:
      Edit Text: Target="_level0.myTextField" Text="This is sample text."