askvity

How to Open a PageMaker File in InDesign

Published in Desktop Publishing File Conversion 2 mins read

Opening your legacy Adobe PageMaker files in Adobe InDesign allows you to continue working on your documents using a modern layout application. The process is straightforward and directly supported by InDesign for compatible PageMaker versions.

Here's how you can open a PageMaker file in InDesign, based on the official method:

Steps to Import PageMaker Files

Before you begin, ensure the original PageMaker application file is closed on your computer. Then, follow these simple steps within Adobe InDesign:

  1. Launch Adobe InDesign: Open the InDesign application on your computer.
  2. Access the Open Dialog: In InDesign, go to the menu bar and select File > Open.
  3. Specify File Type (Windows): If you are using Windows, locate the Files of Type menu in the Open dialog box. Click on this menu and choose PageMaker (6.0‑7.0) from the list of available file formats. This step helps filter the files displayed to show your PageMaker documents.
  4. Select Your File: Navigate through your folders to find the specific PageMaker file (.pmd or .p65 extension) that you wish to open. Click on the file to select it.
  5. Open the Document: Once the file is selected, click the Open button in the dialog box.

InDesign will then attempt to convert and open the selected PageMaker document.

Important Considerations

  • Compatibility: This direct opening method is primarily designed for PageMaker versions 6.0 through 7.0 files. Older versions might require additional steps or conversion utilities, if available.
  • Conversion Artifacts: While InDesign does a good job converting, complex layouts, specific fonts, or embedded graphics might require some adjustments or clean-up after the file is opened in InDesign. Review the converted document carefully.
  • Fonts: Ensure you have the fonts used in the original PageMaker document installed on your system for the best conversion result.

By following these steps, you can successfully transition your existing PageMaker projects into the InDesign environment, preserving your content and layout to a significant extent.

Related Articles