Changing the dot points in Google Docs is a simple task that can make your document look more professional and appealing. By following a few easy steps, you can customize the bullet points to match the style and tone of your content. Whether you’re creating a list, outlining a project, or taking notes, the right dot points can make all the difference. Let’s dive into how to change them.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Change Dot Point in Google Docs
Before we jump into the steps, let me explain what you’ll achieve by the end of this guide. You’ll be able to change the default bullet points in your Google Docs document to a different style, symbol, or even an image. This can be useful when you want your document to stand out or to match specific branding guidelines.
Step 1: Open your Google Docs document
Open the Google Docs document where you want to change the dot points.
Once your document is open, find the list that you want to customize. If you haven’t created a list yet, you can start by typing out your items and then selecting them to apply the dot points later.
Step 2: Highlight the text with the dot points
Click and drag your cursor over the text with the dot points you want to change.
Make sure you select only the items in the list, not any other text around them. If you accidentally select too much, simply click and drag again to adjust your selection.
Step 3: Click on the bullet list icon in the toolbar
Once your text is selected, locate the bullet list icon in the toolbar and click on it.
This icon looks like three lines with dots next to them and is usually found in the top toolbar. If you don’t see it, you may need to click on the "Format" menu and find it under "Bullets & numbering."
Step 4: Choose ‘More bullets…’
From the dropdown menu that appears after you click the bullet list icon, select ‘More bullets…’
This will open a new window where you can choose from various bullet styles, symbols, and even emojis.
Step 5: Select your desired dot point and click ‘OK’
Scroll through the options, click on the dot point you like, and then click ‘OK’ to apply it to your selected text.
If you want to use a custom image as a bullet point, you can do so by clicking on the "By URL" tab in the same window and entering the image URL.
After completing these steps, your list will now have the new dot points you selected. This can make your document more visually appealing and help it stand out among others. Remember, you can always go back and change the dot points again if you decide on a different style later on.
Tips for Changing Dot Point in Google Docs
- If you’re using a custom image for your dot points, make sure it’s not too large, as it may disrupt the formatting of your list.
- Consider the readability of your document when selecting new dot points. Some symbols may be too distracting or hard to see.
- You can use different bullet styles within the same document to differentiate between types of lists or sections.
- If you’re working within a team, ensure that the bullet style you choose aligns with your organization’s branding guidelines.
- Remember that changing dot points is just one way to customize your Google Docs. Explore other formatting options to create a truly unique document.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I revert to the original dot points?
If you want to go back to the default bullet style, simply follow the steps above and select the default dot point option in the ‘More bullets…’ window.
Can I use custom images for dot points?
Yes, you can use custom images by selecting the "By URL" tab in the ‘More bullets…’ window and entering the image URL.
Is it possible to save a custom bullet style for future use?
Currently, Google Docs does not offer a feature to save custom bullet styles. You’ll need to select your preferred style each time you want to use it.
Can I change the color of my dot points?
Yes, you can change the color of your bullet points by highlighting the text and using the text color option in the toolbar.
How do I add bullet points to my document?
You can add bullet points by selecting the text you want to list and then clicking on the bullet list icon in the toolbar.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs document.
- Highlight the text with the dot points.
- Click on the bullet list icon in the toolbar.
- Choose ‘More bullets…’
- Select your desired dot point and click ‘OK’.
Conclusion
Changing dot points in Google Docs is a breeze once you know where to look and what to do. With the ability to customize your bullet points, you can give your documents a personal touch or align them with your brand’s visual identity. Whether you opt for a simple symbol, an emoji, or a custom image, the power to make your document pop is at your fingertips. Remember, the key to a great document doesn’t just lie in the content but also in its presentation. So go ahead, get creative with your dot points, and watch your Google Docs transform! If you ever get stuck or need a refresher, come back to this article for guidance on how to change dot point in google docs. Happy customizing!
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.