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Participant
September 13, 2018
Answered

How do I unlink text boxes?

  • September 13, 2018
  • 2 replies
  • 28336 views

I'm working on a file created by someone else who linked every single text box in a 40 page document. So editing a paragraph or image on page 5 affects the placement of text on page 30. When I try to unlink them all of the text disappears.

Is there a way to unlink all of the boxes without losing content?

Thanks

This topic has been closed for replies.
Correct answer Mike Witherell

Try the built-in javascript in the Scripts panel called SplitStory.jsx.

Here is some more info:

https://indesignsecrets.com/how-to-split-long-story-into-smaller-pieces-unthreading-middle-story.php

2 replies

Mike Witherell
Community Expert
Mike WitherellCommunity ExpertCorrect answer
Community Expert
September 13, 2018

Try the built-in javascript in the Scripts panel called SplitStory.jsx.

Here is some more info:

https://indesignsecrets.com/how-to-split-long-story-into-smaller-pieces-unthreading-middle-story.php

Mike Witherell
Participant
September 13, 2018

That did the trick. Thanks so much.

TᴀW
Legend
September 13, 2018

If the book contains running text, it is normally a good idea to have all text frames linked, as in your file. And indeed, when making changes, one must be aware of how any changes can cause reflow, and fix things up accordingly.

However, if the text on each page really need not be connected to the next page, and you're sure you want to break the threads between the pages, there is a script that comes installed with InDesign called "Break Frame.jsx" which will do what you want. But even here, some reflow could happen, and some text could disappear (depending on the specifics of your layout), so use with caution.

Ariel

Participant
September 13, 2018

It's not just text. There are floating images throughout, along with tables, call outs, etc. Formatting is a mess so I'm just trying to tighten it up. I'll try the script option. Thanks.

Community Expert
September 13, 2018

Hi i.a.n. ,

if you try the script do a backup of the document first so that you can go easily back if something goes wrong.

Regards,
Uwe