To save your animation, choose File > Save As (CTRL + Shift + S). This will save your file as a .fla file and will make your animation available for future use (such as the button you will create next).

To export the file as a shockwave (.swf) file, choose File > Export Movie... (CTRL + Alt +Shift + S). You be will be asked for some specifics. The only thing to really pay attention to is the Protect from import option. If this box is checked, then you have locked it from the outside world (if you don't want anyone downloading your flash file).

Open up your new .swf file and test it! Congratulations! You have created a basic Flash animation file!

Let's create a working interactive button!!!