Changing the background color on Google Docs is a simple task that can make your document more visually appealing. By following a few quick steps, you can customize the background color to your liking. You’ll need to access the ‘Page Setup’ option from the ‘File’ menu and select the desired color from there.
Step by Step Tutorial: Changing the Background Color on Google Docs
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that changing the background color can help differentiate your document, make it easier on the eyes, or even align it with a specific theme or branding.
Step 1: Open your Google Docs document
Access the document that you want to change the background color of.
When you’re in your Google Docs document, make sure you’re logged in to your Google account. If you’re not, you’ll need to sign in to make any changes.
Step 2: Click on ‘File’
Locate the ‘File’ menu in the upper left corner of your Google Docs interface.
The ‘File’ menu is your gateway to a multitude of options and settings for your document. It’s the first place to look when you want to make significant changes.
Step 3: Select ‘Page Setup’
Within the ‘File’ menu, scroll down and click on ‘Page Setup’.
‘Page Setup’ is where you can adjust various settings for your document’s pages, including margins, orientation, and, of course, the background color.
Step 4: Click on the ‘Page Color’ option
In the ‘Page Setup’ dialog box, you will see the ‘Page Color’ option.
This option might not be immediately noticeable, so look carefully, and you’ll find it towards the bottom of the box.
Step 5: Choose your desired color
Select the color you’d like to use as your background from the color palette.
You can pick one of the standard colors or customize your own by clicking on the ‘+’ sign and using the color picker or entering a specific color code.
Step 6: Click ‘OK’ to apply the changes
Once you’ve selected your color, click ‘OK’ to apply it to your document.
Your chosen color will now be the background for your entire document, giving it a fresh new look.
After completing these steps, you’ll see the new background color applied to your Google Docs document. It’s a quick way to personalize your work and make it stand out.
Tips: How to Effectively Change the Background Color on Google Docs
- For a professional look, choose a light color that won’t overpower the text.
- Consider the readability of your text against the background color you select.
- Use a color that complements any images or graphics in your document.
- Remember that printing a document with a colored background may use a lot of printer ink.
- If collaborating with others, make sure the background color is suitable for all parties involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set different background colors for different pages within a document?
No, the background color will apply to all pages in the document.
Will changing the background color affect how my document prints?
Yes, it will print with the selected background color, which may consume more ink.
Can I use a custom color that’s not in the default palette?
Absolutely, you can create a custom color by clicking on the ‘+’ sign in the color palette.
Is it possible to change the background color on Google Docs using the mobile app?
Unfortunately, this feature is not available in the mobile app as of now.
Will the background color be visible when exporting the document to a different format?
Yes, the background color will remain when exporting to formats like PDF.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs document.
- Click on ‘File’.
- Select ‘Page Setup’.
- Click on the ‘Page Color’ option.
- Choose your desired color.
- Click ‘OK’ to apply the changes.
Conclusion
Changing the background color on Google Docs is a nifty feature that allows for greater customization of your documents. Whether you’re looking to make your document stand out, reduce strain on your eyes, or simply trying to match your company’s brand colors, this simple adjustment can make a world of difference.
Remember, the color you choose can significantly affect the readability and overall look of your document, so choose wisely. Additionally, if you’re planning to print the document, consider the extra ink that might be used for a colored background.
If you’re collaborating on a document, communicate with your colleagues to ensure the color choice works for everyone. And don’t forget, while the Google Docs mobile app doesn’t currently support this feature, you can still access and edit your documents’ background color through the web version on a mobile browser.
In the end, personalizing your document with a background color could be the final touch that takes it from good to great. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how it transforms your Google Docs experience.
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.