Create GREP styles

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to apply character styles automatically to text patterns using GREP expressions in Adobe InDesign.

GREP is a pattern-based search technique. GREP styles apply a character style to text that matches a specified expression, such as automatically formatting all phone numbers. All paragraphs that match the GREP expression are formatted with the character style.

Select Window > Styles > Paragraph Styles.

Select the panel menu icon, then select New Paragraph Style.

Select the GREP Style.

Select New GREP Style to add a new GREP formatting rule.

Select a preset character style or create a new character style by selecting New Character Style from the Apply Style drop-down menu.

Select the GREP expression manually or select the Special Characters for Search icon next to the To Text field.