Create and add snippets

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to save reusable page elements as snippet files with layout positioning in Adobe InDesign.

Create and use snippets in InDesign to save and reuse page objects while preserving their relative positions. Snippets are stored as IDMS files (INDS in earlier versions) and can be placed either at their original location or where you select. They retain layout structure, layer associations, and object relationships, ensuring consistent reuse across documents. Snippets can be stored in Object Libraries, Adobe Bridge, or on your system, and use existing document resource definitions when available.

Create a snippet file

Select one or more objects using the Selection tool.

Choose File > Export.

Select InDesign Snippet from the Save As Type (Windows) or Format (macOS) menu.

Enter a file name, then select Save.

Place snippets in a document

Select File > Place.

Select one or more snippet files (IDMS or INDS), then select Open.

Select the location to place the upper-left corner of the snippet.

Repeat to place additional snippets if required.

Choose how to place snippets

Select Edit > Preferences > File Handling (Windows) or InDesign > Preferences > File Handling (macOS).

Select Original Location or Cursor Location from the Position at drop-down menu in the Snippet Import section.

Select OK.

Hold Alt (Windows) or Option (macOS) while placing the snippet to override the setting temporarily.

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