Google Docs makes it super easy to keep track of your word count without breaking a sweat. Simply click on "Tools" in the menu bar, then select "Word count." A small window will pop up showing the total word count, among other details. And just like that, you’re done! This straightforward process means you’ll never have to hunt down your word count again.
How to Put the Word Count on Google Docs
In this section, you’ll learn how to quickly and easily find the word count in your Google Docs document. Whether you’re writing an essay, a story, or a report, this tool is a handy helper. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step 1: Open Your Google Docs File
Start by opening the document in Google Docs where you want to check the word count.
Just navigate to Google Docs and select the file you’re working on. It’s essential to open the exact document you want to check, as each file has its own word count.
Step 2: Click on "Tools"
Next, go to the menu at the top of your screen and click on "Tools."
The "Tools" option is your gateway to various features in Google Docs. It’s located between "Insert" and "Extensions," making it easy to spot.
Step 3: Select "Word Count" from the Dropdown Menu
After clicking on "Tools," a dropdown menu will appear. Select "Word count" from this list.
Choosing "Word count" will trigger a little pop-up window to appear, showing you the number of words, characters, and more.
Step 4: Review the Word Count Information
Finally, take a look at the pop-up window to see the word count details.
You’ll find information like the number of pages, words, characters (with and without spaces), which is super helpful for meeting specific requirements.
Once you’ve completed these actions, a pop-up window will display your document’s word count, along with other relevant details like the number of pages and characters. This feature ensures you stay on target with word limits and helps you manage your writing projects effectively.
Tips for Putting the Word Count on Google Docs
- Use keyboard shortcuts: For quick access, press Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on a Mac) to bring up the word count.
- Keep it open: You can keep the word count window open while writing by checking the "Display word count while typing" box.
- Check specific sections: Highlight a section of text to find out the word count for just that part.
- Update in real-time: The word count updates automatically, so no need to refresh manually.
- Mobile access: You can also check word count on mobile devices by tapping the three dots in the top-right corner and selecting "Word count."
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the word count visible while typing?
You can keep the word count visible by checking the "Display word count while typing" option in the word count pop-up window.
Can I view the word count on the mobile app?
Yes, you can view the word count on the Google Docs mobile app by tapping the three dots in the top-right corner and selecting "Word count."
Does the word count include headers and footers?
No, the word count feature in Google Docs does not include text in headers and footers.
How do I check the word count for a specific section?
Highlight the text you want to check, then click on "Tools" > "Word count," and the pop-up will show the count for that specific section.
Is there a way to count only the characters?
Yes, the word count feature also displays the number of characters, both with and without spaces.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs file.
- Click on "Tools."
- Select "Word count."
- Review the word count information.
Conclusion
Finding the word count in Google Docs is like discovering a treasure map for writers, guiding you toward your goal without any detours. In just a few clicks, you can unlock valuable information about your document’s length, ensuring that you meet project requirements and stay on track. Whether you’re crafting a novel or composing a school essay, this feature is your trusty sidekick, helping you navigate the writing process with ease.
If you’re juggling multiple writing projects, knowing how to put the word count on Google Docs can save you time and energy. You’ll no longer need to manually count words or rely on third-party tools – it’s all right there in your document. Plus, with the added benefit of real-time updates and mobile access, you’ll have the flexibility to manage your work anytime, anywhere.
So the next time you find yourself wondering how many words you’ve written, remember these simple steps and let Google Docs do the heavy lifting. Happy writing!
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.