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Audre23621442dvz3
Participating Frequently
May 10, 2023
Answered

Unable to choose any tools except text

  • May 10, 2023
  • 2 replies
  • 1089 views

Operating in InDesign 2023.  Occasionally when I open documents that I have been working on and I use the Text Tool all other tools lock up.  I am unable to choose the tools such as the Selection or Direct Selection Tools.  I can go into layers and select items and use my keyboard arrows to move items, but cannot use the actual tools.  When this occurs, it applies to all my InDesign documents.  Anyone know what is happening and suggestions on how to fix it?

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Correct answer Robert at ID-Tasker

For the rebuilding / trashing preferences you don't need IT - you don't need elevated access - you just need to be quick enough in pressing keys. 

 

2 replies

Barb Binder
Community Expert
Barb BinderCommunity Expert
Community Expert
May 10, 2023

HI @Audre23621442dvz3:

 

I have my fingers hovering over the keys as I start InDesign and then immediately/quickly (your call on that one! 😊) press them down.

 

I think it's worth noting, though, that the keyboard technique doesn't work for everything. If you end up having reoccurring issues, return to that link and continue working your way down the page. There are additional steps you can take that tend to be a longer lasting than just the keyboard shortcuts.

 

~Barb

 

~Barb at Rocky Mountain Training
Barb Binder
Community Expert
Barb BinderCommunity Expert
Community Expert
May 10, 2023

Hi @Audre23621442dvz3:

 

When InDesign begins behaving erratically, it's time to rebuild cache/preferences. 

https://www.rockymountaintraining.com/adobe-indesign-rebuilding-preferences-cache/

 

~Barb

~Barb at Rocky Mountain Training
A
Audre23621442dvz3Author
Participating Frequently
May 10, 2023

Thank you for the link, unfortunately I am unable to complete those steps.  I will work with my IT department to see about access.  Is there anything other workarounds available?  

Derek Cross
Community Expert
Derek CrossCommunity Expert
Community Expert
May 10, 2023

1) Close InDesign
2) Double click on Adobe InDesign's icon to launch it
3) QUICKLY hold down Ctrl+Alt+Shift. (for Windows) or CTL+OPT+CMD+Shift (for Mac OS X)
4) When a dialogue box appears, ask you “Delete InDesign Preference Files?” Click Yes.

(If you don't see the question do it again.)

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