Setting up the File
1. Following the directions on page 39 of your Visual Quickstart Guide (VQG), create a new document that is 11”x 8.5” (this will hold two interval studies.)

2. Save your document as an Illustrator (.ai) file (see p. 44).

3. Draw a 5” square by choosing the rectangle tool (see p. 64), clicking on the page, and entering your dimensions. Create a second square by copying the first one, by holding down option/alt and dragging (p. 92). Note: Chapter 1 of the VQG provides a useful overview of the tools palette and other parts of the Illustrator interface.

4. To change the color of your squares, select them using the selection tool (p. 79) and choose either white or black (page 137).

5. Align the top edges of your squares by using the Align palette (p. 418). Lock them in position (p. 91).

6. If you would like to work more precisely, you can turn on Smart Guides (p. 88–89) or use rulers and ruler guides (p. 409).

Creating the Vertical Interval Study
1. Create an interval by drawing a new 5” square.

2. Select the interval using the selection tool (p. 79) and change its color to either white or black, the opposite of the background color.

3. Adjust the width of the interval by first selecting its side with the direct selection tool, then dragging while holding the shift key to constrain movement.

4. Move the interval on top of the background. If it is unlocked, you can align the background square and the interval by using the Align palette.

5. Continue to make additional intervals and adjust their size/placement until you are satisfied with your interval study.

Creating Diagonal Interval Studies
1. To create diagonal intervals, draw a rectangle and select it with the selection tool.

2. Rotate the interval to the desired angle by using the rotate tool (p. 98). As before, shift-option/alt drag to create new intervals at the same axis as the first one.

Printing the Study
1. Make sure your intervals extend beyond the edge of your studies to allow room for slight mistakes in cutting. This “bleed area” should be at least 1/8”.

2. Select “create trim marks” (see p. 446) to create fine crop marks around your individual studies. These marks make trimming the final 5” square versions easier.

3. Choose letter-sized paper and the appropriate printer for your lab in the page setup dialogue box (p. 444).

4. Drag the page tool over the area you want to print (see p. 42) and then select Print from the File menu.