Páginas Maestras, número de página y secciones

How to transfer a grid to InDesign and use master pages?

When working with InDesign, mastering the use of master pages and grids is essential to optimize your workflow. These tools allow you to establish a consistent layout and make automatic changes to multiple pages, which saves time and effort when editing complex documents, such as a portfolio. Let's take a step-by-step look at how to accomplish this task from setting up a new document to creating sections.

How to set up a new document in InDesign?

• Start a new document: When you open InDesign, go to "File" and then to "New Document". Here you can define the dimensions in centimeters that you had previously planned, such as a width of 16.5 cm and a height of 23 cm. Don't forget to change the file name to "Portfolio".

• Set margins and bleeds: Leave the document as a single column and set margins of 1 cm on each side as a starting point. Consider a 0.5 cm bleed, essential to avoid inconsistencies when cutting the pages.

What are master pages and how are they applied?

Master pages are a powerful tool within InDesign. They act as templates that you can apply to multiple pages simultaneously, facilitating consistent design.

• Creating master pages: In the Pages panel, when you click create new pages, you will see the master page at the top. This allows you to set repeating elements such as page numbers and margins.

• Add page numbers: Create a text box on the master page, right click and select "Insert Special Character > Markers > Current Page Number". By duplicating this box on opposite sides, you will get automatic page numbers throughout your document.

How to adjust margins and apply styles on a master page?

• Modify visible margins: From the master page, you can adjust the margins that will define your grid. For example, set 3 cm for the bottom margin and 6 cm for the inside margin.

• Apply mirrored layout: To work with a double page, modify combine the margins on both sides so that they are reflected on all pages, ideal for centered text or layouts.

How do you handle multiple page types?

Often, you will need different page styles in the same document.

• Create a title page without a page number: Duplicate the page style to create a new structure, such as a title page. Simply remove the page numbers and drag the style to the desired page.

How to include sections and bookmarks in the project?

Dividing a project into sections makes it easier to understand and organize. Here is how to do it:

• Add a section bookmark: Define themed sections such as "illustration", "spaces" and "editorial" using bookmarks. In InDesign, right-click on a page and add the section marker with its name.

• Apply changes to specific sections: You can change the style or include elements such as a background by applying them from the master page. This ensures that all pages within that section share the same attributes.

What recommendations to follow to optimize the design in InDesign?

1. Define your needs well: Before importing into InDesign, have all your texts ready in a Word document. This will facilitate their incorporation.

2. Pre-calculate the number of pages: A proper planning of how many pages will be needed will help you calculate the paper required for your project.

3. Establish clear styles: Although you may not always need to create new character or paragraph styles, having a base style will make it easier to adjust later without complications.

Controlling the use of grids and master pages in InDesign not only maximizes efficiency but also raises the professional level of your design. By learning and mastering these techniques, you'll be ready to tackle larger projects with confidence and skill. Keep learning and honing your skills in this fascinating world of editorial design!