InDesign

Calculate values in panels and dialog boxes

You can perform simple math in any numerical edit box. For example, if you want to move a selected object 3 units to the right using the current measurement units, you don’t have to work out the new horizontal position—simply type +3 after the current value in the Transform panel.

Panels use the measurement system selected in the Preferences dialog box; however, you can specify values in another measurement instead.

  1. In a text box that accepts numerical values, do one of the following:

    • To replace the entire current value with a mathematical expression, select the entire current value.

    • To use the current value as part of a mathematical expression, click before or after the current value.

  2. Type a simple mathematical expression using a single mathematical operator, such as + (plus), - (minus), x (multiplication), / (division), or % (percent).

    For example, 0p0+3 or 5mm + 4.

  3. Press Enter or Return to apply the calculation.
In the Control panel and the Transform panel, you can duplicate the selected object and apply the calculation to the duplicate (instead of the original). Enter the calculation and press Alt+Enter (Windows) or Option+Return (Mac OS).