Expert: Candice Anderson - 4/26/2006

Question
Hi there Candice,

I'm using InDesign CS2. Is it possible to limit the number of characters or words in a text thread? I'm thinking for the purpose of a template so that I can ask people to submit articles and tell them that it has to be 500 words or less.

Thanks!
Jamie

Answer
Hey there,

I don't belive you can, but if you go to http://www.lipsum.com/ you can ask for a 500 word paragraph.  You can then place that into your text box and size it the words.  If they go over, they no longer see the words and get the square on the bottom left hand corner.

an alternative is to set up a php blog in which the people will type their words.  php gives you the option to limit the words. You can then simply cut and paste your words into indesign.

good luck,
Candice ;)