Add a pattern of color to rows or columns

When you have many rows or columns, alternating colors can make the information easier to read. InDesign lets you create this effect with the click of a button.

1 With the Type tool, click anywhere in the table.

2 From the Table menu, choose “Table Options,” then choose “Alternating Fills....”

This opens the “Table Options” dialog, as explained on page 94, with the “Fills” pane showing, as shown below.

3 From the “Alternating Pattern” menu, choose “Every Other Row.”

Change “Skip First” to 1 Row.

Put a check in “Preserve Local Formatting” if you have already colored some cells and don’t want them to change. Click OK.