Making text vertical in Google Docs may sound like a complex task, but it’s actually quite simple! All you need is a text box, a little bit of creativity, and the steps I’m about to share with you. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to rotate your text and give your documents a fresh, unique look that stands out.
Step by Step Tutorial: Making Text Vertical in Google Docs
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand that Google Docs doesn’t directly allow text to be written vertically. However, there’s a neat workaround using the drawing tool to create a text box that can be rotated. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open the Drawing Tool
Click on “Insert” on the top menu, then select “Drawing” and “New.”
The drawing tool is like a mini canvas within Google Docs where you can create shapes, text boxes, and more. It’s a fantastic feature that unleashes more creative potential in your documents.
Step 2: Create a Text Box
Click on the text box icon in the drawing toolbar and draw a text box on the canvas.
Once you’ve drawn your text box, you can type in whatever text you want to appear vertically. Keep in mind the size of the box, as it will determine how your text is displayed once it’s rotated.
Step 3: Rotate the Text Box
Click on the text box, then click on the rotation handle at the top of the box and drag it to rotate the text box to your desired angle.
As you rotate the text box, your text will appear vertical. You can rotate it 90 degrees for a standard vertical look or get creative with different angles.
Step 4: Save and Close the Drawing
Once you’re satisfied with the rotation, click “Save and Close” to insert the drawing into your document.
Your vertical text will now appear as an image within your document. You can click and drag it to move it around or adjust the size as needed.
Step 5: Adjust Text and Drawing as Needed
If you need to make further adjustments, simply double-click on the drawing in your document to open the drawing editor again.
Remember, since the text is now part of an image, you won’t be able to edit it as regular text. You’ll need to go back into the drawing tool for any changes.
After completing these steps, you’ll have successfully created vertical text in your Google Docs document. This can add a creative flair to headings, titles, or any element where you want your text to stand out.
Tips for Making Text Vertical in Google Docs
- Always make sure your text is readable when rotated. Too much rotation can make it hard for readers to understand.
- Use the vertical text for short snippets of text like headings or labels to keep your document looking clean.
- Consider the spacing within your text box, as rotating can sometimes squish your text together.
- Experiment with different fonts and text sizes to see what looks best vertically.
- Remember that vertical text can be a great way to draw attention to specific parts of your document, so use it sparingly and strategically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make text vertical in Google Docs without using the drawing tool?
No, Google Docs doesn’t have a direct feature to make text vertical. The drawing tool is the best workaround for achieving this effect.
Will the vertical text be editable like normal text?
Once the text is part of a drawing and inserted into your document, it won’t be editable like regular text. You’ll need to edit within the drawing tool.
Can I change the color of my vertical text?
Absolutely! Just like any other text in Google Docs, you can change the color within the drawing tool before saving and closing.
Is there a limit to how much text I can make vertical?
There’s no specific limit, but keep in mind that readability can become an issue with longer sections of text. It’s best used for shorter pieces like headings.
Can I use vertical text in a Google Docs table?
Yes, you can insert your drawing with the vertical text into a cell within a table, treating it like an image.
Summary
- Open the Drawing Tool.
- Create a Text Box.
- Rotate the Text Box.
- Save and Close the Drawing.
- Adjust Text and Drawing as Needed.
Conclusion
And there you have it—making text vertical in Google Docs isn’t so daunting after all! With a bit of creativity and the steps outlined above, you can give your documents a unique touch that can really make them pop. Whether you’re creating a flyer, a presentation, or just want to add some pizzazz to your headings, vertical text is a fun way to spice up your work.
Just remember to consider the readability and aesthetics, as well as the context in which you’re using vertical text. It can be a powerful tool when used correctly and sparingly. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch your documents transform from the mundane to the extraordinary. And if you ever forget how to do it, just come back to this article for a quick refresher on how to make text vertical in Google Docs!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech content online for more than ten years. He enjoys writing about Google Docs in addition to many other applications and devices and has cumulatively covered Google’s word-processing application in hundreds of different articles.
He has been published on dozens of popular websites, and his works have accumulated millions of pageviews.
While focused primarily on tutorials and guides for popular electronics like the iPhone and iPad, as well as common applications like Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel, he covers topics across the entire technology spectrum.
You can read his bio here.