By hiding rests

With this method, the first bar actually gets the same time signature as the following bars – it only looks like an upbeat bar:

Procedure

  1. Enter the notes in the upbeat into the first bar.

    Figure: The first bar before making any adjustments

  2. Hide the rests that precede the notes.
  3. Drag the barline between measure one and two to adjust the width of the bar.

    Figure: After hiding the rest and dragging the barline

  4. If you like, move the notes in the upbeat measure, using the Layout tool.
  5. If you use bar numbers, adjust them.

    Figure: The final upbeat