Adobe makes use of 4 symbol types which are: Graphics, movie clip, button and font. Each has its different functions for creating a simple or technical image. You can reuse the symbol into your document anytime you want and in any other documents as well. The symbol can become an icon on your library once it is created. So what exactly do they do? How to they work? And how do you use them? Well, let us find out. .
The graphic symbol can be used towards static images when creating pieces of animation. It is also synced to a main timeline which adds less size towards the FLA file then movie clip or buttons. Interactive and sound controls won’t work when using the graphic symbol.
To create a graphic symbol; make an object by using the pen tool, vector or shapes. Name your new graphic symbol to keep track of your work. Make sure you add a timeline to keep your animation going.
The button symbol can be used for interactive button response to whenever the mouse hovers over an image, when the mouse clicks on the image or any other interactive actions.
To create a button symbol; you must make it interactive by adding button timelines and creative instant actions not frames in the button timeline. Make sure nothing is selected on the document and name the button to be organized. At the top on the tool bar select insert > new symbol, you could add a graphic, picture ect. by using the drawing tools. You must insert a key frame and if needed a roll over effect that can be added by simply hitting F5. When finished, click edit> edit document and drag symbol to library.
The movie clip symbol can be used to create pieces of animation into a clip. Having its independent time line can help users multitask and contain interactive button control, sound, and even another movie clip. In this function you could also create animated movie buttons.
To create a movie clip; create or import an object, this will be converted to a movie clip. Then when ready convert it into a symbol. Select movie clip behaviour, double click edit mode and create an animation sequence. And done
The Font symbol [T] can be used to import text into your flash documents.
To use the font symbol; On your toolbar you will see a button with a T in the middle click that button and you will also see that a new window appears where you can pick the font style, size, color and more that you desire. Once chosen your pick click on the main document and write whatever you please.
