InDesign & the Control Palette

Introduction to InDesign

Adobe InDesign is a software application created by Adobe Systems. Graphic designers and production artists are the principal users, creating and laying out periodical publications, posters, and print media. It can also be used to create content for tablet computers.

InDesign’s interface consists of ‘tabbed’ windows for each document currently open in the program. Above the window, there are options listed as File, Edit, Layout, Type, Object, Table, View, Window, and Help.

Each window will be labeled with the name of the open file, or untitled if you have just opened a new file and haven’t saved it yet. Rulers are against the top and side of the document.

When you open an InDesign file, there will be a number of palettes, or smaller windows, opened by default. Since you may have changed your defaults, you can go to the Window listing at the top of your screen and elect to show any of these palettes if they aren’t already open.  

The Control Palette

By default the Control Palette docks at the top of the screen. Float or dock it on the bottom of the screen if you want. Palette contents change depending on the tool in use or what you are doing. Item measurements are in this palette.