Use cross-reference formats

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to customize cross-reference formats in Adobe InDesign to control how referenced content appears and updates automatically in your document.

Cross-reference formats define how referenced content is displayed when linking to destination paragraphs or text anchors. Using these formats, you can control the inclusion and styling of elements such as page numbers, paragraph text, and chapter numbers, ensuring consistency and automatic updates across your document.

Create a custom cross-reference format

Select Window > Type & Tables > Cross-References.

Select the panel menu icon, then select Define Cross-Reference Formats.

Select the existing format that best matches your needs.

Enter a name in the Name field.

In the Definition field, type the format or select the add icon for the predefined options.

Select the at sign icon to select from predefined options.

Select an option from the Character Style for Cross-Reference drop-down menu.

Select Save, and then select OK.

Edit an existing cross-reference format

Select Window > Type & Tables > Cross-References.

Select the panel menu icon, then select Define Cross-Reference Formats.

Select the format you want to edit.

Update the Name field if necessary, then edit the Definition field by selecting the add icon or the at sign icon.

Select Save, then select OK.

Apply character styles within cross-references

Select Window > Styles > Character Styles.

Select Create new style .

Select Window > Type & Tables > Cross-References.

Select the panel menu icon, then select Define Cross-Reference Formats.

Select an existing format.

Select the add icon, then select Character Style. You’ll view <cs name=””></cs> tag.

Enter the character style name within the cs name double quotes.

Insert the required text or building blocks between the cs tags.

Select Save, then select OK.

Delete unused cross-reference formats

Select Window > Type & Tables > Cross-References.

Select the format you want to delete.

Select the Delete selected cross-references icon.

Note

You cannot delete a Cross-Reference Format currently applied to cross-references in your document. Remove or change those cross-references before trying to delete them.

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