To find the word count in InDesign, you need to access the Info panel within the program. This panel will display the number of words, lines, characters, and paragraphs in your document or selection. It’s a quick process that will help you keep track of your text’s length and make necessary adjustments.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Find Word Count in InDesign
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand that knowing your word count is crucial when working on projects with specific text requirements. Whether you’re creating a brochure, a magazine, or a book, staying within the word limit is key. The following steps will guide you through finding the word count in InDesign.
Step 1: Open your document in InDesign
Open the InDesign file you want to check the word count for.
When you have your file open, you’re ready to find out how many words you’ve got in there. Make sure you’re on the page or selection whose word count you want to know.
Step 2: Select the text frame or frames
Click on the text frame or frames you want to count the words in. If you want the word count for the entire document, select all the text frames.
If you’re looking for the word count of a specific section, make sure only that section is selected. Otherwise, InDesign will count the words in the entire document.
Step 3: Go to the Window menu
Navigate to the ‘Window’ menu at the top of your InDesign workspace.
The ‘Window’ menu is where you’ll find all sorts of useful panels that can help you with different aspects of your design work.
Step 4: Open the Info Panel
Within the ‘Window’ menu, go down to ‘Info’ and click on it to open the Info panel.
The Info panel is a handy tool that shows you lots of details about your document, including the all-important word count.
Step 5: Check the Word Count
Look at the Info panel to see the word count for your selection or entire document.
The panel will not only show you the word count but also other useful information like the number of lines, characters, and paragraphs. It’s a great way to keep tabs on your text’s length.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a clear idea of your document or text frame’s word count. This information can help you adjust your content to meet any requirements or restrictions you might be working with.
Tips on How to Find Word Count in InDesign
- Make sure you update the Info panel if you make changes to the text by clicking on the text frame again.
- If you select multiple text frames, InDesign will give you a cumulative word count of all selected frames.
- The Info panel will also count words in linked text frames, so you don’t have to select each one individually.
- Remember that the word count may not include text in overflow that’s not visible in the frame.
- Use the ‘Story Editor’ feature if you want to see the word count for text that’s not fitting within the frame boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does InDesign count spaces as words?
No, InDesign does not count spaces as words. It only counts actual words separated by spaces.
Can you get a word count for a specific section of text?
Yes, you can get a word count for a specific section by simply selecting that portion of the text before opening the Info panel.
Will the word count update automatically if I edit the text?
The word count in the Info panel will update once you reselect the text frame after making edits.
Does InDesign count words in hidden layers?
No, InDesign only counts words in visible layers. If you have hidden text, it won’t be included in the word count.
Can InDesign provide a character count with or without spaces?
Yes, InDesign’s Info panel provides both character counts – with spaces and without spaces.
Summary
- Open your document in InDesign.
- Select the text frame or frames.
- Go to the ‘Window’ menu.
- Open the ‘Info’ Panel.
- Check the Word Count.
Conclusion
Knowing how to find the word count in InDesign is essential for any designer or editor working on text-heavy projects. The process is pretty simple and quick, thanks to the Info panel feature in Adobe InDesign. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily keep track of your word count, ensuring that your content meets any length requirements and fits perfectly within your design layout. Always remember to check the Info panel after any significant text edits to get an updated count. Whether you’re working on a flyer, a catalog, or a novel, mastering this skill will save you time and help you maintain the quality of your work. Happy designing, and may your word counts always be precise!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.