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Change numbered list options
Last updated on
Jun 2, 2026
Learn how to control numbered lists in Adobe InDesign by customizing number styles, formatting expressions, and managing how numbering flows.
In a numbered list, numbers update automatically when you add or remove paragraphs. Items in the same list follow a sequence, even if the paragraphs aren’t next to each other, if you define them as part of one list. You can also create multi-level lists, where items follow an outline format with different indent levels.
Customize numbering styles
Select the panel menu icon, then select Bullets and Numbering.
Select Numbers under List Type.
Select a numbering style from the Format drop-down menu in the Numbering Style section.
Customize the number format in the Number field:
- Use the default expression, which includes a period (.) and a tab (^t).
- Create a custom expression by deleting the period after the number marker (^#).
- Replace the period with another character, such as a closing parenthesis, or with multiple characters.
- Select the arrow icon, then select Insert Special Character, and choose a symbol, such as an Em Dash or Ellipsis.
- Add a word or character before the number marker, such as Question, to label list items clearly.
Use a full-width separator instead of a standard period to improve spacing and alignment in vertical text.
Apply a character style to the entire number expression if needed.
Select OK.
Control numbering flow
Use the Type tool and select the numbered list that you want to modify.
Select Window > Type & Tables > Paragraph.
Select the panel menu icon, then select Bullets and Numbering.
In the Mode drop-down menu, select Continue From Previous Number to number the list sequentially, or select Start At and enter a starting number to begin a new sequence.
Set any remaining options, then select OK.
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