If you’re designing a promotional product like a brochure, you’ll need a typesetting software like Adobe InDesign®. Since this program has a range of features, it can be hard to navigate if you aren’t a professional. Luckily, there are a few easy hacks that save you time and let you work more effectively. While the wording of specific shortcuts may depend on which version of the software you’re working with, here are the basics of a few simple ones to get you started.

4 Tips for Designing Brochures on Adobe InDesign®

1. Number Pages Automatically

You don’t need to enter page numbers manually if you add them to your master page. Choose a location on the first page for the numbers, then select “type,” “insert special character,” “markers,” and “current page number.” The next time you view your live document, the page numbers will populate the fields. 

2. Balance Paragraphs 

Shorter paragraphs sometimes look awkward and uneven, making them difficult to read. Correct this by highlighting the affected text and turning on the “balance ragged lines” feature, which you will find by selecting “window,” “type + tables,” and “paragraphs.”

3. Create Color Palettes 

If you have difficulties selecting colors or simply want some extra inspiration, use the eyedropper color feature. Select the “color theme” icon from the left toolbar, then click on any image, which will automatically identify and display a series of complementary colors from which to choose. Not only will this save you time, but it’ll also help you develop a more beautiful color scheme.

4. Use Flowing Text Boxes

Drawing text boxes on every single page of a document is time-consuming. Prevent the need for this by holding “shift” and clicking the upper-lefthand corner of the margins. Your boxes for text will instantly appear on every page according to the margins you’ve already set for the document. 

If you need help designing or printing promotional products like brochures, get in touch with the team at Northern Printing in Anchorage, AK. This printing service creates brochures, posters, flyers, business cards, custom banners, and other marketing materials for clients throughout the state. Visit them online to learn more about their business printing capabilities or call (907) 562-6554 to discuss a project.