# Specialty Topics

# GRIT Layout Monthly Guide

*Use this page each month when preparing the GRIT issue layout.*

---

<a id="bkmrk--1"></a>## Monthly Steps

- Copy the template into the month folder.
- Rename the file for the current month.
 
---

<a id="bkmrk--3"></a>## Monthly Settings

### Change monthly accent color

- In InDesign: **Window → Color → Swatches**
- Select **Issue Accent Color**.
- Enter RGB value, or use the eyedropper tool.
 
---

<a id="bkmrk--5"></a>## Folder Structure

Your local folder structure should look like this:

 ```
month_name
  - Ads
  - Images
```

---

<a id="bkmrk--7"></a>## Download Assets

### Ads

Download prepared ads from OneDrive. Example path:

 ```
Communication & Publication Committee > Documents > GRIT Editor Workspace > Monthly Issues > 2026 > March > Ads
```

### Images

Download all emailed images into the `Images` folder.

---

<a id="bkmrk--9"></a>## Skeleton and Layout Setup

### Ensure all guides are visible

- **View → Grids &amp; Guides → Show Guides**
- **View → Screen Mode → Normal**
 
### Insert pages

Insert enough pages so the issue ends on a multiple of 4.

### Insert ads and images

- Use ads in planned ad frames.
- Use <kbd>Cmd+Shift+Click</kbd> to turn a master frame into an editable box.
- Use <kbd>Cmd+D</kbd> to place the image.
 
### Image fitting behavior

The image masters are created with an Object Style that fits the image you place into the largest dimension.

---

<a id="bkmrk--11"></a>## GRIT Layout FAQ

### Do I need to use exact folder names?

Yes. Keep the month folder with `Ads` and `Images` subfolders so links and placement are predictable.

### Why does Cmd+Shift+Click matter?

It unlocks master-page frames so you can edit a specific issue page without changing the master itself.

### What if page count is not a multiple of 4?

Insert pages until the total is divisible by 4. Print layout and booklet flow depend on this.

### Related Pages

- [Specialty Topics](specialty-topics.html)
- [Quick Reference](quick-reference.html)