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May 1, 2026
Question

Can you select multiple non-contiguous text ranges in a single text box in Illustrator?

  • May 1, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 25 views

Hi all,

I’m working with a single text box in Illustrator and want to select multiple separate pieces of text at the same time (similar to holding Ctrl/Cmd in Word to select different words/phrases).

The goal is to apply formatting (e.g. bold, font change, size) to multiple non-adjacent parts of the same text object in one go.

See my example below: I want to highlight “Ingredients, EN | Important, Warning” so I can edit/adjust their formatting - without having to highlight each one separately, then editing the format one-by-one

Is there a way to do this in Illustrator? Or is there a recommended workaround (e.g. styles, scripts, plugins)?

Thanks!

    2 replies

    Monika Gause
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    May 1, 2026

    You could take a look at JC Tremblay’s GREP script

    http://www.proficiografik.com/catalog_scripts.html

    Dave Creamer of IDEAS
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    May 1, 2026

    Best option is to apply Character Styles during the initial formatting. They give your consistant formatting and global updates.

    David Creamer: Community Expert (ACI and ACE 1995-2023)