Putting tables side by side in Google Docs can be a bit tricky, but it’s definitely doable! You’ll need to use the drawing tool to create the tables and then position them next to each other. It’s a quick process once you get the hang of it, and I’m here to help you through it.
Step by Step Tutorial: Putting Tables Side by Side in Google Docs
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re aiming for. We’re going to create two separate tables within the drawing tool and then place them side by side within the document. This will allow us to have tables that are easily comparable or that complement each other’s data.
Step 1: Open the Drawing Tool
First things first, you need to open the drawing tool in Google Docs.
To open the drawing tool, click on ‘Insert’ in the top menu, then hover over ‘Drawing’ and select ‘+ New.’ A new window will appear where you can create your tables.
Step 2: Create the First Table
Now it’s time to create your first table in the drawing tool.
Click on the ‘Table’ icon and select the number of rows and columns you want for your table. Then, fill in the table with your desired text or data.
Step 3: Create the Second Table
Once you have your first table, you’ll create the second table right next to it.
Repeat the process you used to create the first table, ensuring that it’s right next to the first table within the drawing tool window.
Step 4: Save and Close the Drawing Tool
After creating both tables side by side, it’s time to save your work.
Click ‘Save and Close’ in the top right corner of the drawing tool window. The tables will now appear in your Google Doc side by side.
Once you complete these steps, you’ll have two tables side by side in your Google Docs document. They’ll act as one image, which means you can move them around together and they’ll maintain their position relative to each other.
Tips for Putting Tables Side by Side in Google Docs
- Make sure the tables are aligned properly in the drawing tool for a clean look in your document.
- Adjust the cell dimensions in the drawing tool to ensure your text fits nicely.
- Remember that you can always go back and edit the tables by selecting the image and clicking "Edit."
- Use the ‘Text box’ tool within the drawing tool for additional text or annotations.
- Consider the overall layout of your document to ensure the side-by-side tables enhance readability and presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adjust the size of the tables once they are in Google Docs?
Yes, you can adjust the size of the tables by clicking on them and dragging the corners to resize.
What if I need to add more data to one of the tables later?
No problem! Just click on the tables and select "Edit" to go back into the drawing tool and make your changes.
Is there a limit to how many tables I can put side by side?
Technically no, but you’ll be limited by the width of your document’s page. You want to ensure your tables remain readable.
Can I add colors or styles to my tables in the drawing tool?
Absolutely! You can customize the look of your tables just like you would with any other drawing in Google Docs.
Will my tables stay side by side if I convert my Google Doc to a PDF?
Yes, they will stay side by side because they are saved as an image within your document.
Summary
- Open the drawing tool in Google Docs.
- Create the first table in the drawing tool.
- Create the second table next to the first.
- Save and close the drawing tool.
Conclusion
Mastering how to put tables side by side in Google Docs can significantly enhance the way you present data. Whether you’re looking to compare figures or complement information, side-by-side tables offer a visually appealing and easy-to-read format. Just remember to use the drawing tool, align your tables properly, and customize them to fit the style of your document. With a bit of practice, you’ll be creating professional-looking documents that impress. So, go ahead and give it a try! If you need further assistance or want to explore more advanced Google Docs features, there are plenty of resources available online to guide you through the process.
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.