Expert: Roy Wilhelm - 1/6/2009

Question
Is there a way to insert these, as in Quark? For example, if I write $700 billion, I'd like to insert a tight space been the "$700" and the "billion" so that a. the "$700" will automatically be taken over the the next line, rather than a space appearing and b. the space between the "$700" and the "billion" will be slightly smaller than usual, and standardised, even when using justified text.

Thank you for your help!

Answer
Sorry it took me a while to get you an answer. What you're looking for is under Type > Insert White Space > Nonbreaking Space (Fixed Width). This space will take care of two of your goals: 1. it will prevent a break; 2. it will hold a fixed space even in justified text settings. In order to get this space to be smaller than normal, just apply a negative kerning or tracking value.

You can obviously insert them manually throughout your document. OR, if you have a lot of them i would recommend setting up a Character Style JUST for this nonbreaking space. In this Character Style, designate your font, size and NEGATIVE tracking (or kerning). Then, do a Find/Replace command to get the nonbreaking spaces where you need them.

Since your dollar amounts are probably varied (i.e., $54 million, $239 billion, etc.). You will need to conduct a semi-complex Find/Replace command.

1. Go to Edit > Find/Replace.
2. Enter "0 billion" in the Find field
3. Enter "0*billion" in the Replace field. (or instead of the asterisk, insert another character that DOES NOT appear anywhere else in the document).
4. Click "change all."

Do the same for all other possible ending digits. (if dollar amounts end in 1-9, conduct the Find/Replace for those as well.) Be sure to do this slowly and methodically so that you don't forget to change the digit in the Replace field.

Now comes the magic. Just replace the asterisk with the "nonbreaking space (fixed width) and be sure to apply your Character Style in the "Change Format" option at the bottom of the Find/Replace box.

Let me know if you have any additional questions. It's too bad InDesign doesn't have a nonbreaking third or quarter space.

Good luck!