Read the missing-font information
InDesign can alert when a font is unavailable and list it under Missing in the font menu. Record the exact family and style rather than replacing every unknown resource with the first similar-looking name.
A matching family label does not establish that another edition has identical glyphs or metrics.
Make the appropriate resource available
Adobe documents adding or activating the required family through Creative Cloud’s Adobe Fonts area where it is available. A local font may instead need installation or activation in the relevant font manager.
Use the original source and the correct style files. If the resource is not available to you, make an intentional replacement rather than silently assuming a substitute is identical.
Apply the choice through the text system
Use the font controls for selected editable text, and keep paragraph or character styles consistent with the design. A local override can affect only part of the story.
After replacing a family, inspect overset text, line breaks, italics and special characters. A substitution can change layout even if the overall visual mood is similar.
Keep family context in the handoff
The font-file guide explains resource formats, while font pairing helps separate heading and body roles. Record selected families and styles for the next editor.
Your questions, answered.
Does a similar-looking font guarantee the same line breaks?
No. Letter widths, spacing and glyph coverage can differ.
Why is a font marked missing?
The document references a resource that InDesign cannot currently use. It may need installation, activation or an intentional replacement.
Sources & background
Sources supporting this page’s explanations. Practical examples are our editorial suggestions.