Format text in tables

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to apply text formatting, alignment, rotation, and spacing controls to table cell content for better readability in Adobe InDesign.

Text inside tables can be formatted using the same tools and techniques as regular text. Additional options allow precise control over alignment, spacing, tabs, and rotation within cells.

Insert tabs in a table cell

Position the insertion point inside a table cell using the Type tool.

Select Type > Insert Special Character > Other > Tab.

Select the required cells or columns, then use Type > Tabs to adjust tab settings.

Note

When you apply a decimal tab with the Tabs ruler, text in cells aligns automatically on the decimal character without needing a tab at the start of each paragraph, unless overridden by other formatting, such as center alignment.

Change text alignment within a cell

Horizontal alignment of text within a cell is controlled using the Paragraph panel. Decimal alignment uses tab settings.

Select the cell or cells to modify using the Type tool.

Select Table > Cell Options > Text.

Select Align, then specify the alignment: Align Top, Align Center, Align Bottom, or Justify Vertically.

If you select Justify Vertically, set the Paragraph Spacing Limit to set a maximum amount of space to be added between paragraphs.

Select First Baseline and adjust the settings to control text offset within the cell. The settings are the same as those in the Text Frame Options dialog box.

Select OK.

Rotate text in a cell

Position the insertion point in a cell or select cells using the Type tool.

Select Table > Cell Options > Text.

Select the value for Rotation from the drop-down menu.

Select OK.

Change cell inset spacing for text cells

Position the insertion point in a cell or select text cells using the Type tool.

Select Table > Cell Options > Text.

Specify values for Cell Insets: Top, Bottom, Left, and Right. Increasing inset spacing may increase row height. Fixed row heights can cause overset text.

Select OK.

Change cell inset spacing for graphic cells

Select the cell containing the graphic using the Selection tool.

Select Table > Cell Options > Graphics.

Specify values for Cell Insets: Top, Bottom, Left, and Right.

Select OK.

Note

If you are unable to select the cell, select the link or embed symbol in the upper-right corner of the cell and press Esc.

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