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From: dsmall@mitre.org (Duane Small)
Newsgroups: comp.human-factors
Subject: Re: modes in object-oriented graphics packages
Message-ID: <1991Jun26.124935.3771@linus.mitre.org>
Date: 26 Jun 91 12:49:35 GMT
Article-I.D.: linus.1991Jun26.124935.3771
References: <1991Jun24.172022.15695@cpsc.ucalgary.ca>
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>We're looking at ways to limit the hassle of switching modes in object-based
>drawing packages such as MacDraw.  The constant hassle, in particular
>between drawing a line and grabbing that line (i.e. the switch between 
>the arrow tool and the line tool) is getting to be a real pain.

(more text deleted)

FrameMaker for the Mac uses the option key to change between treating text 
as editable and treating the frame of the text as an object to be moved or 
adjusted in size.  The mouse cursor changes to show which mode you are in. 
I personally find it convenient.