appending 2 files into 1 long file

[annperfect]

I have instructions for appending 2 files into 1 from the FAQs (so that I may combine the two sides of a casette tape back into the whole symphony in one file). Instructions say to cut second file before appending it to first as a paste. THERE IS NO CUT OPTION in the edit menu of the 1.3 beta version! If I use copy instead, I can append the second file to the end of the first, but when I try to save the new, longer file, the old second file merges with the new longer one at the beginning and I get them both playing at once. How do I close out the old second file before I save the new, longer 1+2 file I have created?

[steve]

I have instructions for appending 2 files into 1 from the FAQs

I'm not sure that the instructions that you are describing are actually the best way to do the job. Could you post a link to the FAQ that you are using?

The way that I would do it would be simply to use the Time Shift tool (double headed arrow button <--> or F5 key) to slide the second track to the right so that it has a starting position at the end of the first track. When you Export, the two Audacity tracks will be merged ("mixed down") into a single audio track.

[annperfect]

Yes, Steve, I understand what you are saying, and I can do it that way. Thank you. but the FAQ should still not mislead. The text of the FAQ is below.
I can do everything in it except cut a file--no cut option.

How do I combine two files into one longer file?
Follow these steps to splice two files together:

1.Import both files into Audacity.
2.Select the second one by clicking on its label (the area around the mute/solo buttons).
3.Choose “Find Zero Crossings” from the Edit menu.
4.Choose “Cut” from the Edit menu.
5.Place the cursor by clicking in the first track, after the end of the audio.
6.Choose “Paste” from the Edit menu.
You can press the Play button to hear the result, and use the Export commands (in the File menu) to save it as a sound file.

[steve]

Thanks, I've found it. You mean this one? http://audacityteam.org/help/faq?s=editing&i=join
I'll see if I can get that updated, though it may take a little while as all of the people with access to that part of the web site are currently tied up with getting the new Audacity (2.0) release ready.

4.Choose “Cut” from the Edit menu.

That should be:
Edit menu > Remove Audio > Cut.
(The keyboard shortcut is Ctrl+X)

[waxcylinder]

Thanks for finding and reporting that annperfect - good catch

The set of FAQs in the 1.3/2.0 manual is normally a better source- see: http://manual.audacityteam.org/man/FAQ:Editing#join

We are aware of the problems of trying to maintain two different sets of FAQs on "how to use Audacity" and will try to find some time to deal with this once 2.0 is released.

WC