Specify characters for decimal tabs

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to use the Align On box to align text to any character in Adobe InDesign.

Decimal tabs align text to a specified character, not just a decimal point, making them useful for columns with currency symbols, colons, or other punctuation. For basic decimal alignment using periods, the default decimal tab works without customization.

Use the Type tool to select the paragraphs you want to align.

Select Type > Tabs.

Select the Align to Decimal (or Other Specified Character) Tab button in the Tabs panel and then select the ruler to create a new tab.

In the Align On box, type or paste the character you want to align to.

Tabs dialog box with a highlight around the Align to Decimal tab and a period (.) in the Align On field.
Ensure that the paragraphs you’re aligning contain your chosen character.

Press Enter (Windows) or Return (macOS).

Tip

Common alignment characters include dollar signs ($), colons (:), em dashes (—), and currency symbols (€, £, ¥).