startDrag and stopDrag in ActionScript

This tutorial was written for the Flash Designer software, which allows you to create flash animations in a much easier way than by using Macromedia Flash. You may get Flash Designer here.

If you need to be able to drag several objects (one at a time) in a single frame this is a good way to get it done. You can click and drag either of the rectangles below:

NOTE: Minimum Flash Designer version 5.0.17

Follow the steps below:

1. Create a new .sfd file.
2. Set the frame delay to "Stop".
3. Size the frame at about 300x250.
4. Create 2 small shapes (about 80x80) and give them different fill colors.
5. Select one of the shapes and click Edit > Convert to Sprite.
6. Right-click it and click "Placement Properties".
7. Check the "Action-Script Target" checkbox and click OK (This is important! Nothing works without it.)
8. Click the other shape and repeat the process.

Next, highlight and copy the script below, then right-click on the frame (not a rectangle) and click ActionScript in the context menu. Paste the script into the dialog and change the Sprite number to match yours (Change "Sprite5" to "Sprite3" for example) if needed.

Click the Preview button to see the results of your labor.

HINT: To drag a text object, it's easier if you place the text on top of a rectangular shape and group them, then convert them to a sprite. Otherwise, the mouse pointer has to be directly over the text to drag it. You'll "miss" if you point and click between the letters. You can make the shape the same color as your background and it won't be noticed.