Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 7/22/2008

Question
Admittedly, I am very new to AI--steep learning curve.  I am attempting to make drop shadows behind the text that mimics the drop shadow of MS Word.  

Yesterday I created a print document with text with drop shadows.  I do not know for sure if I used filters or effects, but I now know the difference and would use effects from now on. I believe it was effects, because when I open a file there are many layers still visible.  

I would like to edit the effect, but the drop shadow option has seemingly disappeared.  Even when I create a completely new document, the only option displayed under Effects is Glowing edges.  

What have I done wrong?  
What are the settings to closely approximate the drop shadow in MS Word?

Answer
Hi Lynn

After you type in your text, you have to make sure you switch back to the selection tool (black arrow). When you have active text (you can still type), the effects are greatly limited.

To edit your original drop shadow, you would go to the appearance palette, select your item with the selection tool, and you should be able to see the FX icon in the appearance palette, if not, you may have run a Filter. If you see it, double click the icon in the palette and it reopens the drop shadow window.

Im not sure what MS Word uses for a drop shadow effect, so I can't help you there. I personally use a 40% opacity for my drop shadows, 75% is way too dark.

Thanks

Kevin