How do I auto number chapters in a book file? The pages automatically update for me but I can't seem to get the chapter numbers to do so. I have multiple indd files but the chapter number won't change, only the page number.

Forum|Forum|26 days ago
June 23, 2026
2 replies
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I am creating multiple book files based on the indd files I have. In each book file the chapters are in different orders. How do I set up my parent page to automatically update the chapter numbers as it does for the page numbers? No matter what I try all the chapters keep the same number as the first in the book file.

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Correct answer Dave Creamer of IDEAS

@danstheeman45 I duped your file and put the files into a Book file; then updated all numbers. The chapter variable did update. Where else are you using the chapter number?

A

Apached54

Participant

Hi. Thanks. I did now. Export I can do. But for Lulu and Amazon books. Just wondering how to make it shareable even by an email it says I can't see the link or something. For Indesign linked assets

Dave Creamer of IDEAS

Community Expert

You should really post a new thread of your own--one for each separate topic. This was originally about chapter numbering.

You need to export as an ePUB, however each site will have details as to what they accept. They may also have instructions for exporting from InDesign too.

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

Dave Creamer of IDEAS

Community Expert

Did you use the Chapter variable in your headings and the chapter indicator in your numbered lists (for tables or figures, for example)?

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

danstheeman45Author

Participant

Yes I used the Chapter Number Text Variable, but the numbers all remain the same. I can change them manually in the document numbering window, but I would like them to auto number since I have multiple version of the book.

Dave Creamer of IDEAS

Community Expert

Can you upload an example of one of your chapters? You can remove all critical content.

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

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