How to Set Tabs in InDesign

You can create tabs with Adobe InDesign to indent paragraphs or to help organize text within columns. You can also create hanging indents or use leaders. You should learn how to manipulate tab settings to improve the look of your documents.

Instructions

1. Select "Type" and then "Show Hidden Characters" from the InDesign menu. Make certain that you have "Normal View Mode" selected to view the tab markers.

2. Choose "Type" and then "Tabs."

3. Click on the Magnet icon, which will align the text and palette.

4. Highlight the text with the InDesign Type tool.

5. Align the text to the left, right, center or at a decimal point by clicking on the appropriate arrow in the Tabs palette.

6. Type a tab position into the X box and hit return, or click on the ruler at the position.

7. Add leaders in InDesign by clicking the appropriate tab arrow on the ruler and typing whatever character you wish in the Leader box found in the Tabs palette.

8. Create a hanging indent by sliding the indent markers found on the left side of the ruler over to the desired position. By grabbing the bottom marker, both of them will slide together.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware that the instructions may vary depending on which version of InDesign you are using or with Mac OS.