How to Word Count in Google Docs
Getting a word count in Google Docs is a breeze! All you need to do is open the document, click on ‘Tools’ in the menu bar, and then select ‘Word count.’ A small window will pop up, displaying the total words, characters, and even pages in your document. You can also use a handy keyboard shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C for Mac users). That’s it! You’ve got your word count in just a few simple clicks.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Word Count in Google Docs
Checking word count in Google Docs helps you keep track of your writing goals. Follow these steps to find out how many words you’ve written.
Step 1: Open Your Document
First, open the document you want to check.
Make sure you’re logged into your Google account, and navigate to Google Docs. Open the specific document you’re working on.
Step 2: Click on ‘Tools’ in the Menu
Next, look at the top of the page and click on ‘Tools.’
The menu bar at the top of your document has various options. ‘Tools’ is where you’ll find features like spelling, grammar, and, of course, word count.
Step 3: Select ‘Word count’
After clicking ‘Tools,’ choose ‘Word count’ from the dropdown menu.
Once you select ‘Word count,’ a dialog box will appear, showing you the total number of words, characters, and pages.
Step 4: Use the Keyboard Shortcut
Alternatively, you can press Ctrl+Shift+C on Windows or Cmd+Shift+C on Mac.
This shortcut is a quick way to access the word count without navigating through menus.
Step 5: View the Word Count Window
Check out the details in the word count window.
This window provides additional information, such as character count with and without spaces, which can be useful depending on your writing needs.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll see the total word count and more. This info can help you adjust your writing to meet specific requirements or goals.
Tips for Word Count in Google Docs
- Enable Live Word Count: You can check ‘Display word count while typing’ for a real-time word count.
- Count Specific Sections: Highlight a portion of text before selecting ‘Word count’ to count only that section.
- Understand All Metrics: The word count window gives you detailed character counts, which can be crucial for certain assignments.
- Use for Editing: Knowing your word count can help in editing to meet specific limits, making your document concise.
- Check Before Submitting: Always check the word count before you submit any assignments or work to meet any necessary requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a word count on mobile?
On the Google Docs app, tap the three dots in the top right and select ‘Word count.’
Can I view the word count for just part of the document?
Yes, highlight the text you want to count and then follow the same steps for a word count.
Is there a way to keep track of word count as I type?
Yes, by checking ‘Display word count while typing’ in the word count window.
Does Google Docs count words in footnotes?
No, footnotes are not included in the total word count.
Can I find the character count without spaces?
Yes, the word count window provides character count with and without spaces.
Summary
- Open your document.
- Click on ‘Tools.’
- Select ‘Word count.’
- Use the keyboard shortcut.
- View the word count window.
Conclusion
Getting a word count in Google Docs is a simple yet powerful tool for writers, students, and professionals alike. Whether you’re crafting an essay, drafting a report, or working on a novel, knowing your word count helps you stay on track and meet any specific word limits. By following these steps, you can easily access your word count and gain insights into your writing.
But don’t stop here! Explore other features in Google Docs, like formatting options and collaboration tools, to make your writing process even more efficient. If you’re curious about maximizing your productivity, there are countless tutorials and articles available online that dive deeper into Google Docs’ capabilities.
So, why wait? Open your Google Docs and start counting those words! Whether you’re eyeing a Pulitzer Prize or simply finishing a school assignment, knowing your word count is just a few clicks away.
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.