How to Change Background Color on Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Matthew Burleigh

Changing the background color on Google Docs is a quick and easy process. With just a few clicks, you can customize your document to reflect your personal style or to match a specific theme. Whether you’re looking to create a visually appealing project or simply want to switch things up, changing the background color is a great way to enhance your document’s appearance.

Step by Step Tutorial: Changing Background Color on Google Docs

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that changing the background color on Google Docs can make your document stand out. It can be especially useful when creating presentations, flyers, or just adding a personal touch to your work.

Step 1: Open your Google Doc

Open the Google Doc you wish to change the background color for.

Once you have your document open, make sure you’re signed in to your Google account so that any changes you make will be saved.

Step 2: Click on ‘File’

In the top menu, click on ‘File’.

This will open a drop-down menu with a list of options for you to choose from.

Step 3: Select ‘Page setup’

Scroll down the menu and select ‘Page setup’.

The page setup option is towards the bottom of the menu, so you might have to scroll down a little to find it.

Step 4: Click on the ‘Page color’ option

In the page setup window, click on the ‘Page color’ option.

This will open a color palette for you to choose from.

Step 5: Choose your desired color

Select the color you want to use as your background.

You can pick from the preset colors or you can add a custom color by entering its hex code.

Step 6: Click ‘OK’

After selecting your color, click ‘OK’ to apply it to your document.

Your document’s background color will now be changed to the color you selected.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your Google Doc will have a fresh new background color. Keep in mind that changing the background color will not affect the text color, so you may want to adjust that as well to ensure readability.

Tips for Changing Background Color on Google Docs

  • Use contrasting colors to make the text readable against the new background color.
  • Consider the purpose of your document when choosing a background color; a professional document may require a more subdued color.
  • Custom colors can be added using hex codes for more specific color choices.
  • Changing the background color can be done on individual pages or the entire document.
  • Remember that printing documents with colored backgrounds may use more printer ink.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I revert back to the original background color?

To revert back to the original background, follow the same steps and select ‘White’ as the page color.

Can I set an image as the background color?

Currently, Google Docs does not support setting images as the background color.

Will changing the background color affect how the document prints?

Yes, the background color will appear when printed, which may use additional printer ink.

Can I share a document with a changed background color?

Yes, you can share the document as you normally would, and the background color will be visible to others.

Can I change the background color on the Google Docs mobile app?

The option to change the background color is currently not available on the Google Docs mobile app.

Summary

  1. Open your Google Doc.
  2. Click on ‘File’.
  3. Select ‘Page setup’.
  4. Click on the ‘Page color’ option.
  5. Choose your desired color.
  6. Click ‘OK’.

Conclusion

Changing the background color on Google Docs is a straightforward process that can add a touch of personality to your documents. Whether you’re preparing a presentation, creating a flyer, or just want to make your work more visually appealing, the ability to customize the background color is a nifty feature. By following the step-by-step tutorial above, you can easily transform the look of your document in just a few clicks. Just remember to keep readability in mind and to use colors that complement your content. With these tips and frequently asked questions in your back pocket, you’re all set to give your Google Docs a colorful makeover. So go ahead, give it a try and see how a simple change of background color can make a big difference in your document’s presentation.

Matthew Burleigh

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.

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