Changing the background in a Google Doc can be a great way to personalize your document or make it stand out. It’s a simple process that just requires a few clicks. In a nutshell, you will be opening your Google Doc, clicking on ‘File,’ then ‘Page setup,’ and finally changing the page color to your liking. Let’s dive into the specifics.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Change Google Doc Background
Before we get to the nitty-gritty, let’s understand why you might want to change your Google Doc background. Maybe you’re creating a themed document, or you want to make your document less strainful to the eyes with a softer background color. Whatever the reason, changing the background color can bring a fresh look to your document.
Step 1: Open your Google Doc
Open the Google Doc that you want to change the background color of.
Opening your Google Doc is the first step in this process. Once you have your document open, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
Step 2: Click on ‘File’
Click on the ‘File’ tab located in the upper left corner of your screen.
The ‘File’ tab is where you can find all the document settings, including the ‘Page setup’ option, which is what we are looking for.
Step 3: Select ‘Page setup’
After clicking ‘File,’ a dropdown menu will appear. Look for ‘Page setup’ towards the bottom of this menu and click on it.
‘Page setup’ is where you can change your document’s margins, orientation, and, most importantly, the page color.
Step 4: Change the page color
In the ‘Page setup’ dialog box, click on the ‘Page color’ option and choose the color you want for your background.
You can select from a range of preset colors, or if you want a specific shade, you can click on ‘Custom’ and enter a color code.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Google Doc will have a new background color. This can be a fun way to personalize your documents or make them easier to read.
Tips for Changing Google Doc Background
- Choose a color that enhances readability; avoid colors that are too bright or too dark.
- Consider your audience; if you’re sharing the document, make sure the color is appropriate.
- Use theme-related colors for presentations or thematic documents.
- Remember that if you print the document, the background color will also print, which may use up a lot of ink.
- If you’re not happy with the color you chose, you can always repeat the steps and select a different color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an image as a Google Doc background?
No, Google Docs does not currently support the ability to add an image as a background.
Will changing the background color affect the text color?
No, changing the background color will not automatically change the text color. You will need to adjust the text color separately if needed.
Can I save a custom color to use again later?
Yes, once you create a custom color, Google Docs will save it under ‘Custom colors’ for future use.
Will the background color be visible when I share the document?
Yes, the background color will be visible to anyone you share the document with, as long as they have editing or viewing permissions.
Can I change the background color in the Google Docs mobile app?
No, as of now, you cannot change the background color of a Google Doc in the mobile app. This feature is only available on the desktop version.
Summary
- Open your Google Doc.
- Click on ‘File.’
- Select ‘Page setup.’
- Change the page color.
Conclusion
Changing the Google Doc background is a breeze once you know where to look. With just a few clicks, you can add a pop of color to your document, making it more visually appealing and personalized. Whether you’re looking to reduce eye strain with a softer hue or want to add some thematic flair to your document, the background color is an often underutilized feature that can make a big difference. Remember, the color you choose can affect the readability of your document, so choose wisely. And since Google Docs saves your custom colors, you can easily apply them to future documents for a consistent look.
So next time you open a Google Doc, why not give it a try? Who knows, a little color might just be what your document needs to stand out! And if you’re ever unsure, just revisit these steps to change it again. 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.