Working with Master Pages in Adobe PageMaker

This guide explains master pages in Adobe PageMaker. It is written for users with some experience. The language is simple. Sentences are short. You will learn why and how to use masters. You will also find helpful tips and FAQs.

What is a Master Page?

A Master Page is a template page. Designers use it to add repeating items. These items include headers, footers, page numbers, and guides. When you change a master page, the changes appear on all pages that use it. This keeps your document consistent.

Why Use Master Pages?

• Consistency: Keep design elements the same across many pages.
• Efficiency: Design once and reuse it.
• Organization: Separate layout from unique content.

Setting Up Master Pages

PageMaker creates master pages for left and right pages. You will see icons labeled "L" and "R". For single-sided documents, you may see only "R". These icons appear in the lower-left of the document window.

Open the Master Pages panel

• Go to the Window menu and choose Pages or Show Master Pages.
• Open the Master Pages palette to view masters.

Create a new master

• Choose New Master Page or click the plus icon.

• Name it (for example, "Chapter Master").

• Double-click the master thumbnail to open it for editing.

Designing the Master Page

Add the items that repeat on many pages. Use text frames for headers and footers. Add graphic frames for logos. Place page-number markers if you want automatic numbering. Drag ruler guides to set columns and margins. These guides do not print but help layout.

Use rulers and guides

• Drag guides from the rulers to the page.
• Set measurement units by right-clicking a ruler.
• Use inside and outside margins for bound documents.

Displaying Master Pages and Master Page Items

You can display or switch between master pages easily using two methods:

• Method 1: Right-click the master page icon at the bottom of the publication window. You will see a list of available master pages. Select the master you want to view.
• Method 2: Click on Layout, choose Go to Page, and select the name of the master page you want to open.

Adding or Modifying Guides & Objects on a Master Page

You can add or edit text, graphics, or guides on a master page. Any changes you make will automatically update all pages that use that master.

To modify or rename a master page:

• Display the master page you want to edit.
• Press CTRL and double-click the master page name to change its name or adjust margins and columns.
• Enter the new name or values for margins and columns.
• If you want associated pages to adjust automatically, select Adjust Layout.
• Click OK to apply your changes.

Apply, Edit, or Delete a Master

• Apply: Drag a master thumbnail onto a body page in the Pages panel.
• Edit: Double-click the master. Make changes. Select Adjust Layout if you want associated pages to resize automatically.
• Delete: Choose the master in the Master Pages palette and click the trash icon. Confirm to remove it.

5 FAQs about Master Pages

What items belong on a master page?

Headers, footers, page numbers, guides, and repeating graphics belong on masters. Keep unique content off the master.

How do I switch to a master page?

Right-click the master icon or use Layout > Go to Page. Then choose the master name to view it.

Will masters print?

Yes. Objects on a master print unless they are set as nonprinting. Ruler guides are nonprinting by default.

Can I rename or change margins on a master?

Yes. Press CTRL and double-click the master name. Enter a new name or margin values, then click OK.

What happens when I delete a master?

Deleting a master removes its objects from all pages that used it. PageMaker will prompt you to confirm.

Conclusion

Master pages save time and keep your work consistent. Use them for any multi-page document. Set up guides and margins first. Add headers, footers, and page numbers. Apply the master to body pages. Edit the master to update all pages at once.