Apply sequential text styles to multiple paragraphs

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to apply different Paragraph Styles as you type or format more than one paragraph in one action in Adobe InDesign.

Sequential paragraph styles streamline formatting for templates and long documents that feature predictable patterns.

Use the Next Style feature when you have a predictable sequence of paragraph styles that flow from one to another. This is particularly useful for templates, book chapters, reports, and any document with a consistent formatting pattern.

Define Next Style in Paragraph Style Options

Select Type > Paragraph Styles.

Select the panel menu icon, then select Style Options.

Select General.

Select the paragraph style from the Next Style drop-down menu, then select OK.

Apply sequential styles to existing text

You can apply a style sequence to multiple paragraphs in a single action, useful for reformatting imported or draft content.

Use the Selection tool to select the paragraph.

Select Type > Paragraph Styles.

Select a paragraph style to apply sequential styling.

Select the panel menu icon, then select Style Options.

Select General.

Select a style from the Next Style drop-down menu.

Add any text with this paragraph style, and press Enter (Windows) or Return (macOS) to change it to the Next Style.