Timeline


Timeline - The timeline is one of the most important parts of Flash. This is where you add frames, Keyframes, layers etc.


Frames - The numbers that go from left to right count the frames on your timeline. The default number of frames is 575, though it increases when you reach the limit. The frames are the little white rectangles.


Layers - Layers are used to keep everything in a project organized. You can add an unlimited amount of layers, by selecting the "Insert Layer" button. They do not add to the file size. You can rename, lock or hide layers from view.


Keyframes - The circular dots that are placed to determine a change in the movie. Represented by a black dot. Keyframes are Blank Keyframes if the frame is empty.


Blank Keyframes - Keyframes when nothing is on the stage at the particular frame where the Keyframe is assigned. Represented by a hollow dot.


FPS - The frames per second. This determines how many frames will elapse as a second passes. If you had the default of 12 FPS, 12 frames would pass each second, meaning a 12 frame animation would last one second.


Tools


The tools are located on the left hand side of the Flash interface. The tools are used to create your Flash cartoons or movies. There are pencils for drawing, rectangles for art and shape manipulating icons.


Windows/Panels


Known on Flash as Windows, but affectionately known as Panels, by Flash users, these are the collapsible menus in Flash that hold information. There are windows for Actions, Color Mixer, Behaviours, Components and more. The most used being the Properties window.

Effects


Tween - Named after "in between" as Flash can generate frames in between certain Keyframes itself, without the user having to manually edit the object on each frame.


Converting to Symbol - The process of converting an item to a symbol, either by right clicking and selecting Convert to Symbol, or pressing the F8 shortcut.


Name - Where you assign the name of your new symbol, on the Convert to Symbol menu.


Behaviour - Where you select the behaviour of your new symbol, on the Convert to Symbol menu. There are three behaviours; movie clips, buttons and graphics.


Registration - A grid of registration where you can select one of nine points. The default selection is the center square. A cross hair indicates the symbol's registration point.


Movie Clip - A form of behaviour assigned to an item when creating an object. Movie clips are created when the item needs to move or transition.


Button - A form of behaviour assigned to an item when creating an object. Buttons are interactive, and users can click them, allowing them to go to various frames etc. Buttons are slightly more complex to create, and have four different states; Up, Over, Down and Hit. (See below)


Graphic - A form of behaviour assigned to an item when creating an object. Graphics are static images that do not need to animate or be interactive.


Button States



ActionScript is the object-oriented programming (OOP) language used in Flash movies to add interactivity. ActionScript is a full programming language with a large dictionary of symbolic operators and elements.


3^rd Party Applications


Swift 3D – Swift 3D is a program that allows you to import 3D animations into Flash to make your movie look more professional.


SWiSHmax – Complete with effects, tools, options and other things, it is designed to make Flash more accessible and full with features.