Let's start with the built in Layouts.

1. Open your Project Pane (F5).

2. Select Window > Layouts > Swap Project Pane & Canvas.

Your project pane moves from left to right. This is a very fluid set up as you can smoothly move from Canvas to Project Pane and Canvas to Utility Window.

BEFORE

AFTER

3. Reset your windows. Select Window > Layouts > Standard (control + U).

Note: Control-U is the same keyboad combination found in Final Cut Pro to invoke the Standard Layout.

All panes close and you’re left with the Canvas & Utility Windows. This allows more room to design in the canvas.

4. Select Window > Layouts > Alternate (Control+Shift+U).

This arrangement splits the Inspector out of the Utility window and it can be useful to see the components of an object without switching windows.

5. The Cinema Layout is only available if you are working with a Cinema display. If you are, then select Windows > Layouts > Cinema (Control+Option+U).

On the left is the File Browser and Library - on the right the Inspector. The Canvas is in the middle with both the Project and Timing panes open.

This layout is great and gives you the most design flexibility if you have the screen real estate. However, most of the time you’ll find it just as handy to call up the various windows when you need them.