Adobe InDesign Tutorial for Beginners - 2024

Introduction

This tutorial is designed for beginners looking to get started with Adobe InDesign in 2024. It will guide you through the basic tools and techniques, including how to create and save documents, edit content, and manage multipage documents. By the end of this guide, you'll be equipped to navigate the InDesign workspace and create your first project.

Step 1: Creating a New Document

1. Open Adobe InDesign: Launch the latest version of InDesign. If no documents are open, the start screen will appear.
2. Access the New Document Dialog:
   • Click on File in the top menu.
   • Select New, then Document.
3. Choose Document Type:
   • Select a preset option such as Print, Web, or Mobile. For this tutorial, click on Print.
4. Select Page Size:
   • Choose a preset document size, like Tabloid. You can view all presets if needed.
5. Set Document Properties:
   • Change the name to Flyer.
   • Switch the measurement units from Picas to Inches.
   • Set the orientation to Landscape.
   • Deselect the Facing Pages option as this will be a single-page flyer.
6. Create the Document: Click Create to open your new document.

Step 2: Editing Document Settings

1. Access the Properties Panel: This panel appears on the right side of the workspace.
2. Modify Document Size:
   • You can change the page size or orientation here.
3. Save Your Document:
   • Click File, then Save.
   • Choose a location and ensure the format is set to InDesign Document (.indd).
   • Name your file and click Save.

Step 3: Saving and Exporting Your Work

1. Create a Backup:
   • To save a copy, select File, then Save As.
   • Choose a location, modify the filename (e.g., Flyer_V2), and click Save.
2. Export as PDF:
   • Select File, then Export.
   • Choose Adobe PDF (Print) as the format and click Save.
3. Adjust PDF Settings:
   • In the export dialog, select options based on your needs (e.g., for print or online).
   • Click Export to create the PDF.

Step 4: Familiarizing with the Workspace

1. Understand the Workspace Layout:
   • The workspace includes the document window, menus, application bar, tools panel on the left, and the properties panel on the right.
2. Explore Tools:
   • Use the selection tool (black arrow) to select and move content.
   • Right-click on tool icons with arrows to reveal additional options (e.g., rectangle tool, ellipse tool).
3. Manage Panels:
   • Use the Window menu to show or hide panels.
   • To dock a panel, drag it to the desired location until it highlights.

Step 5: Organizing Your Workspace

1. Customize Your Layout:
   • Rearrange panels to suit your workflow.
   • Collapse panels to maximize document space.
2. Reset Workspace:
   • If needed, click on Essentials in the application bar and select Reset Essentials to restore the default layout.

Conclusion

You've now learned how to create a new document in Adobe InDesign, edit settings, save your work, and navigate the workspace. As you continue exploring InDesign, practice using the various tools and features to enhance your design capabilities. For further learning, consider checking out the sample files provided in the tutorial for hands-on practice. Happy designing!