Getting rid of background color in Google Docs when you copy and paste can be a bit of a hassle, but it’s totally doable. All you need to do is use the "Paste without formatting" option or clear the formatting after you’ve pasted the text. It’s a quick fix that will make your document look clean and professional in no time.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Get Rid of Background Color in Google Docs When Copy and Paste
Before jumping into the steps, it’s important to understand that these will help you maintain the original formatting of your document. The background color can be quite a distraction and does not always fit the new document’s style.
Step 1: Use "Paste without formatting" option
Right-click and select "Paste without formatting" or use the shortcut Ctrl+Shift+V (Cmd+Shift+V on Mac).
This step allows you to paste the text without any previous formatting, including the background color. It’s a quick and easy way to ensure that your document remains uniform in appearance.
Step 2: Clear formatting after pasting
Highlight the pasted text, then click on "Format" in the menu bar and select "Clear formatting".
If you’ve already pasted the text and the background color is still there, this step will remove any formatting applied to the text, returning it to the default settings of your current document.
After completing these steps, your text will blend seamlessly into your document without the pesky background color. It’ll look as though it was originally part of the document, maintaining a professional and clean appearance.
Tips: Managing Background Color in Google Docs
- Use the "Paint format" tool to quickly apply text formatting from one place to another.
- If you frequently paste from the same source, consider changing the source’s formatting to match your Google Docs preferences.
- Remember that "Paste without formatting" also removes bold, italics, and other text styles.
- Keep the Google Docs app updated to ensure you have access to the latest features and fixes for any pasting issues.
- Use the "Format" menu to explore other text and paragraph options that can enhance your document after pasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shortcut for "Paste without formatting" in Google Docs?
The shortcut is Ctrl+Shift+V for Windows/Linux or Cmd+Shift+V for Mac.
This shortcut is a lifesaver when you need to paste text quickly without carrying over unwanted formatting.
Will "Paste without formatting" remove hyperlinks?
Yes, it will remove all formatting, including hyperlinks.
If you want to keep the hyperlinks, you’ll need to add them back manually after pasting.
Can I set "Paste without formatting" as the default paste option?
No, Google Docs does not currently allow you to set it as the default paste option.
You’ll need to select it manually each time you paste or use the shortcut.
What happens to images when I "Paste without formatting"?
Images will not be pasted using "Paste without formatting"; only text will be transferred.
If you need to include images, you’ll have to insert them separately into your document.
Can I remove background color from multiple text selections at once?
Yes, you can highlight multiple sections of text and clear the formatting for all selected areas at once.
This can save time if you’re dealing with a document with multiple instances of unwanted background color.
Summary
- Use "Paste without formatting" option
- Clear formatting after pasting
Conclusion
In conclusion, dealing with unwanted background color in Google Docs can be a bit of an annoyance, but it’s nothing that can’t be handled with a few clicks. Whether you’re copying text from a web page, a PDF, or another document, the ability to paste without formatting or clear formatting post-paste is essential for maintaining the consistency and aesthetic appeal of your document. Remember, the goal is to make your document look its best, and learning how to get rid of background color in Google Docs when copy and paste is a skill that will serve you well in achieving that goal. Keep practicing, use the tips provided, and before you know it, you’ll be pasting like a pro.
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.