📐

Using Baseline Grid in InDesign

Jul 25, 2024

Notes on Using Baseline Grid in InDesign

Introduction

  • Presenter's name: Kevin from CC Pipe
  • Focus: Productivity and pipeline for creatives
  • Topic: Using a baseline grid in InDesign to align text columns

What is a Baseline Grid?

  • A baseline grid helps align text vertically across columns.
  • Every document has this grid, but it is hidden by default.

Showing the Baseline Grid

  • To reveal it:
    1. Go to View > Grids and Guides > Show Baseline Grid.

Setting Up the Baseline Grid

  • Necessary settings:
    • Top Margin: 13 mm
    • Body Text:
      • Font size: 8 points
      • Leading: 9.6 points
  • Access document settings:
    • Shortcut: Ctrl + K
    • Navigate to Grid Tab.
  • Set grid parameters:
    • Start: 13 mm from the top of the page
    • Increment: 9.6 points
    • Click OK.

Aligning Text to the Grid

  • Need to create or use a Paragraph Style.
  • Set Paragraph Style settings:
    1. Find Indents and Spacing.
    2. Set Align to Grid to All Lines.
  • Result: All text using this style will lock onto the baseline grid.

Issues with Baseline Grid

  • Potential spacing issues with headings and paragraph spacing.
  • Indoors may affect the layout:
    • Space between paragraphs should be one or multiple rows.

Handling Subheadings

  • Headings may cause spacing issues.
  • Example with H2 style:
    • If spacing is too large, it may force the heading to the next line.
  • Two Approaches:
    1. Not aligning subheading:
      • Reduce spacing after H2.
      • Use Baseline Shift for adjustments (e.g., -2 points).
    2. Aligning H2 to Baseline Grid:
      • Adjust spacing and remove paragraph spacing.
      • Use Advanced Character Formats to move headings up (e.g., -4 points).

Conclusion

  • Using baseline grids can improve column alignment and spacing.
  • Every document is different; adjustments may be necessary.
  • Understanding text behavior is key to finding effective adjustments.
  • Thank you for watching and see you next time!

Key Takeaway

  • Achieving neat and clear text columns is possible with understanding and patience in using the baseline grid in InDesign.

Full transcript