Auto numbering step by step instructions

[Gefraldo Perez]

I'm creating instruction booklets that are made up of step-by-step photos showing how something is constructed. Each step has a number and I need to find a way of automatically numbering each step. This isn't a simple case of a list with numbered bullet points. There are over 200 steps, so individually numbering them is a task I'd rather automate some how. So I'm looking for a way of maybe having a master step number 'icon' that every time I place into the document will incremetally count up from 1. Or drag from the CC Library and the same thing happen? The steps are not in a regimented position on the page. Each step number will be a white out number within a coloured circle. I've attached an example of something we have previously created so you can see how the numbering looks. Does anyone know if there is a simple solution to this?

[davecourtemanche]

Perhaps try a number list(s) with the prefixes (A, B, etc) & an object style to the shape with the para style applied in the object style. I'd guess it'd require you doing the items in sequence.

[Gefraldo Perez]

Thank davecourtemanche. Creating in sequence wouldn't be too much of a problem, I'll have a go. 👍

[Barb Binder · Accepted solution]

Hi @Gefraldo Perez:

How about something like this:

1. Use Excel to generate the numbers (https://www.teachexcel.com/excel-tutorial/quickly-create-a-huge-list-of-numbers-in-excel_1400.html)
2. Copy/paste the list to the pasteboard.
3. Draw a circle, change it to a text frame, set the vertical alignment to center. Save it as an object style. Duplicate on the spread.
4. Type a sample number in the first frame. Create a paragraph style to change the font, size, color and horizontal alignment to center. Set the Start Paragraph to: In Next Frame in Keep options. Update the style. Be sure the size accommodates the largest numbers comfortably.
5. Delete the sample number and use Semi-automatic flow to add the numbered list to the circles.

~Barb

[Gefraldo Perez]

Thanks Barb, that might well be the solution. Thanks for the detailed explaination too, really helpful.