Map Word styles to InDesign text styles

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to import options to convert Microsoft Word styles into Adobe InDesign paragraph and character styles.

This is useful because importing Word documents with custom styles does not require manual reformatting when you use style-mapping options during placement in InDesign.

Select File > Place.

Select Show Import Options, then select the desired Word document.

Select Open to open the Microsoft Word Import Options dialog box.

Microsoft Word Import Options dialog in Adobe InDesign showing various settings such as Preset, Options, Formatting, and Style Name Conflicts, etc. — Set options to import Microsoft Word Styles to InDesign Styles.

Select Preserve Styles and Formatting from Text and Tables in the Formatting section.

Select Import Styles Automatically, and then select the relevant Paragraph Style Conflicts and Character Style Conflicts.

Select Customize Style Import, then select Style Mapping to open the Style Mapping dialog box.

Map each conflicted Word Style with a new or different InDesign Style and select OK.

Select OK in the Microsoft Word Import Options dialog box.

Create print and digital materials with InDesign
Design impactful ads, magazine and book layouts, and more.

Open the app

Manage style packs

Create GREP styles

Learn

Learn with step-by-step video tutorials and hands-on guidance right in the app.

Community

Join discussions, find answers, learn from experts, and share your knowledge.

Adobe Home

Access your favorite Creative Cloud apps, services, file management, and more.