I have created a new layout. One of the fields is telephone numbers. When I go to format and click on the fields The name field and phone number field will change colors, text whatever I want, except for the size of the text. When I specify a size on the phone number field (set up a a text field) some of the records will change and some will stay the same. The ones that won't change - if I change them in browse mode to what I want it changes the font size on those particular records back in the original layout as well. What makes the records respond different and what do I do to make layouts with the font size I want?

The format you specify in Layout mode is the default.

Additional formatting in Browse mode overrides the default for that record only, in any layout.

To remove the overriding formatting, Replace the field's contents with a calculated result of itself.

When you say "Replace the field's contents with a calculated result of itself. " doesn't that give you a circular formula? I'm not sure what you mean. Sorry to make you explain the basics. And if I follow what you said I should be careful about changing font size in Browse mode because then layout mode can not control it. Where if I change the size with the layout mode it doesn't put a 'lock' on it. Is that correct?

Clay

When you change the size in Layout mode, the formatting will be applied to the data, when viewed through that layout. When you change it in Browse mode, the formatting is saved as part of the data.

Regarding Replace:

1. Back up your file.

2. Find all records.

3. Go to a layout with the field in question.

4. Put the cursor in the field.

5. Select Replace... from Mode menu (I think - don't have your version).

6. Select 'Replace with calculated result'.

7. In the calc box, double-click the field's name.

8. Click OK, then Replace.

Regarding circular definition:

See definition, circular.

Or use Set Field...

Set Field [ textfield, textfield ]

Yes it appears circular but it's not a calc field, it's a scripted process.

This will not work in FMP 7 and later because the calculation engine in FMP 6 and earlier does not transfer across formatting information.

Well, strictly speaking it is circular. But circular is destructive only when the system enters into a never-ending loop. Going once around the block (or as many times as it takes, as long as it is programmed to end at some point) is allowed. What we have here is a simple "read-before-write".

Thanks for everyones help. The difference between modes and everything makes sense and has helped out.

Clay