> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.responsiveads.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.responsiveads.com/creating-ads/designing-your-ad-in-the-fluid-ad-creator/how-to-use-formats-and-layouts.md).

# How to Use Formats and Layouts

## **What Are Formats?**

**Formats** determine the overall **size** and **behavior** of an ad. Think of a format as the *container* that defines how your ad will look and act on different devices and screens.

### **Key Points about Formats**

* **Size:** Formats include specific dimensions, like 300x250 or 728x90. These are the physical sizes of the ad on the screen.
* **Behavior:** Formats also control how an ad behaves when the screen size changes or when users interact with it.

### **Types of Formats**

1. **Standard IAB Formats:**
   * These are fixed sizes, commonly used across websites.
   * Examples:
     * **970x250** (Billboard)
     * **300x250** (Medium Rectangle)
     * **160x600** (Wide Skyscraper)
     * **728x90** (Leaderboard)
2. **Responsive Formats:**
   * These are flexible and can adapt to multiple sizes and layouts.
   * **Example:** The **Fully-Fluid™ Format** can adjust to different sizes like 1920x1080 or 480x1920 in one format.

### **Behavior Examples**

* **Flexible-Height Fluid:** Keeps its shape but resizes proportionally. It’s like stretching a rubber band: the shape stays the same, but it gets bigger or smaller depending on the space.

<figure><img src="/files/OPIHMK2VYWM3Zqm1Pmr8" alt=""><figcaption><p>Flexible Height Fluid</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Fixed-Height Fluid:** The height remains constant while the width can change. Imagine a banner that stretches horizontally but stays the same height.

<figure><img src="/files/GhGadQVnW7ds14AGWvqu" alt=""><figcaption><p>Fixed Height Fluid</p></figcaption></figure>

* **Fully-Fluid™:** Both the height and width can change, allowing the ad to fit any space.

<figure><img src="/files/drU6lrLAMsVygTEcxgiQ" alt=""><figcaption><p>Fully Fluid</p></figcaption></figure>

## **What Are Layouts?**

**Layouts** refer to how the elements inside the ad (like text, images, and buttons) are arranged. If the format is the *container*, the layout is the *contents* inside it.

### **Key Points about Layouts**

* **Arrangement:** The position of images, logos, text boxes, etc., within the ad.
* **Settings:** Includes properties like position, size, and anchoring of each element.
* **Time-Based Arrangement:** How elements appear or animate over time.

### **Using Templates for Layouts**

* **Pre-Made Templates:** These are ready-to-use layouts that you can choose from, saving you time and effort.
* **Custom Templates:** You can create and save your own layouts as templates for future use.

## **Why Are Formats and Layouts Important?**

* **Consistent Design:** They ensure your ads look good across all devices.
* **Flexibility:** Responsive formats adapt to different screen sizes, maximizing your ad's reach.
* **Efficiency:** Using templates allows you to create ads quickly without starting from scratch each time.

## **How to Choose the Right Format and Layout**

1. **Understand Your Audience:** Know where your ad will be displayed and what devices your audience uses.
2. **Select the Format:** Choose a responsive format if your ad needs to be flexible or a standard IAB format for specific sizes.
3. **Design the Layout:** Arrange elements to convey your message effectively. Use templates for a quick start or customize your own layout for a unique look.

***

{% hint style="info" %}

### **Quick Reference**

* **Formats = Container:** Determines size and behavior (e.g., Flexible-Height, Fixed-Height, Fully-Fluid™).
* **Layouts = Content:** Arrangement and settings of elements inside the ad.
* **Templates:** Pre-made or custom layouts to streamline ad creation.
  {% endhint %}

## Using Formats

## Using Layouts