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Using the Edit Box

Whenever a number is needed, or can be supplied, LAYOUT will ask for input using an Edit Box. Although the Edit Boxes look different, they all function in the same way.

A sample dialog box

At any Edit box that is asking for numeric input, expressions such as (5/2+sin(90)) can be entered. (See Math Functions for a complete list of supported functions.)

If an Edit box turns yellow, then the number entered is inconsistent with the context (for example, "-1" was entered for the number of copies).

A circle cannot have a negative diameter

If an Edit box turns Red, an impossible expression has been entered, such as "100 / 0" (division by zero).

Dividing by one is undefined

Cut-and-paste to and from the Edit boxes

For example, you can copy the results of the Measure command by selecting the text, and pressing Ctrl+Insert. Then paste this information into other Edit boxes, like the one for the Size command. Suppose a line is 5.7647584" long, and it needs to be exactly 5" long. Use the Measure, or Inquire command to find out its length, then copy 5.7647584 into the clipboard. Next choose Size and enter "5/" and press Ctrl+V to paste so it reads "5/5.7647584"

NOTE:

You cannot use Ctrl + C to copy from Edit boxes. Use Ctrl + Insert instead.

When a dimension such as 18 5/8 is entered, it must be entered with no spaces, like this: "18+5/8". Do not enter "18 5/8." If "18 5/8," is entered, the space is ignored, and the expression evaluated is actually "185/8" (which is 23.125).