How to Adjust Columns in InDesign

Adjusting columns in InDesign can refer to altering the number or width of columns in a standard text frame or resizing columns within a table. Based on the provided reference, we will focus on adjusting columns within a table.

To adjust the width of columns in an InDesign table, you typically select the cells in the columns you want to resize and then use specific controls.

Methods for Resizing Table Columns

According to the reference, there are two primary ways to adjust table column widths after selecting the relevant cells:

1. Using the Table Panel:

   • Select the cells in the columns you want to resize.
   • Go to the Table panel.
   • Specify the desired Column Width setting directly in the panel.

2. Using the Cell Options Dialog Box:

   • Select the cells in the columns you want to resize.
   • Choose Table > Cell Options > Rows And Columns.
   • In the dialog box, specify the desired Column Width options.
   • Click OK.

Note: The reference states, "Select cells in the columns and rows you want to resize. Do one of the following: In the Table panel, specify Column Width and Row Height settings. Choose Table > Cell Options > Rows And Columns, specify Row Height and Column Width options, and then click OK." This highlights the two methods using either the Table panel or the Cell Options dialog after selecting the relevant cells.

Understanding Table Columns

Tables in InDesign are composed of rows and columns that intersect to form cells. Adjusting column width is crucial for formatting your table content correctly and ensuring readability.

You can adjust individual columns, multiple selected columns, or distribute column widths evenly.

Practical Steps

Here’s a breakdown of the practical steps:

1. Select Cells: Using the Type tool (T), click and drag across the cells in the columns you wish to modify. You can select a range of cells, an entire column by clicking its top edge when the cursor changes, or multiple columns by dragging across their tops.

2. Choose Adjustment Method:

   • Open the Table panel (Window > Type & Tables > Table). Locate the Column Width input field.
   • Alternatively, right-click (Windows) or Control-click (macOS) on the selected cells and choose Cell Options > Rows and Columns.

3. Specify Width:

   • In the Table panel, enter a precise value for the desired column width.
   • In the Cell Options dialog box, enter the desired width value under the Column Width section.

4. Apply Changes:

   • Changes in the Table panel are often applied immediately as you type or press Enter.
   • In the Cell Options dialog box, click OK to apply the specified width.

Remember that adjusting one column's width may affect the overall table width or the width of other columns depending on the table setup and selected cells.

For more comprehensive control over table formatting, exploring the full capabilities of the Table panel and Cell Options dialog box is recommended.