Measure angles

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to calculate custom angles and reference angles from the x-axis in your Adobe InDesign layouts.

Measuring angles lets you maintain consistent rotation, alignment, and geometric relationships in your designs. Use the Measure tool to calculate angles between any two points, with results shown in degrees in the Info panel.

Measure an angle from the x-axis

Select the Measure tool.

Drag from your starting point to create a measuring line in any direction.

View the angle measurement in the Info panel (Window > Info).

Measure a custom angle between two lines

Select the Measure tool.

Drag to create the first measuring line.

Position the tool over either endpoint of the first line.

Hold Alt (Windows) or Option (macOS) and drag to create the second line of the angle.

View the angle measurement and line lengths in the Info panel (Window > Info).

Info panel with callouts for the D1 and D2 line lengths of the custom angle and the rotation in degrees.

Measurement lines remain visible until you create a new measurement or select a different tool.

A. Individual line lengths (D1 and D2) for custom angles B. Rotation in degrees