Checking Word Count in InDesign
To check the word count in InDesign, follow a few straightforward steps. Open your document, use the Type tool to select the text, then navigate to the Info panel to see the word count. If you need a detailed word count for multiple text frames, use the Story Editor feature.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on Checking Word Count in InDesign
You’re about to learn how to check the word count in Adobe InDesign by following these steps. This process is super easy and will only take a few minutes.
Step 1: Open Your InDesign Document
Open your InDesign document by launching the program and selecting the file you want to work with.
So, you’ve got your document open? Great! Make sure everything is loaded up smoothly before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Select the Text
Use the Type tool (T) to select the text you wish to count.
Got your cursor ready? Drag it over the block of text. If you need to count multiple text frames, you can select them one by one.
Step 3: Open the Info Panel
Go to ‘Window’ in the top menu, then click ‘Info’ to open the Info panel.
The Info panel is like a dashboard; it gives you all kinds of useful details about your text, including the word count.
Step 4: Check the Word Count
With your text still selected, look at the Info panel to see the word count.
Pretty simple, right? The Info panel will show you not just the word count but also character count if that’s something you’re interested in.
Step 5: Use the Story Editor for Multiple Text Frames
For a more detailed word count, select ‘Edit’ > ‘Edit in Story Editor’ and check the bottom of the Story Editor window.
The Story Editor is where the magic happens. It will display the word count for the entire story, which is handy if your text spans multiple frames.
After you complete these steps, you’ll have a clear idea of your word count, helping you meet any specific requirements.
Tips for Checking Word Count in InDesign
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Save Often: Make sure to save your document frequently to avoid losing any changes.
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Custom Keyboard Shortcuts: Consider setting up custom shortcuts for opening the Info panel and Story Editor to save time.
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Use Preflight: Utilize the Preflight feature to check if your document meets all necessary requirements, including word count.
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Keep Track of Changes: If you’re editing, keep track of changes made to the text so you know how they affect the word count.
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Templates: Use templates to maintain consistent formatting across multiple frames or documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check word count for multiple text frames at once?
Yes, you can use the Story Editor feature to see the total word count for text that spans multiple frames.
Does InDesign show word count for isolated text blocks?
Yes, by using the Type tool to select individual text blocks, you can see their word count in the Info panel.
Is there a keyboard shortcut to open the Info panel?
While InDesign doesn’t have a default keyboard shortcut for this, you can create a custom shortcut through Edit > Keyboard Shortcuts.
Can I see character count as well?
Yes, the Info panel shows both word count and character count when you select text.
Does InDesign count words in hidden text layers?
No, InDesign only counts visible text. Hidden layers or text won’t be included in the word count.
Summary
- Open Your InDesign Document.
- Select the Text.
- Open the Info Panel.
- Check the Word Count.
- Use the Story Editor for Multiple Text Frames.
Conclusion
So there you have it, checking word count in InDesign is a breeze when you know your way around the tools. Whether you’re working on a novel, a magazine, or a simple flyer, knowing your word count can help you stay within guidelines and polish your work.
Having the word count at your fingertips lets you focus on the creative aspects without worrying about getting lost in a sea of words. Use the Info panel for quick checks and the Story Editor for more detailed insights, and you’ll be well-equipped for any project.
Feel free to experiment with these features and make them a part of your regular InDesign workflow. And remember, practicing these steps will make them second nature in no time. Happy designing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.