How to Check Word Count of Highlighted Text in Google Docs Efficiently

Checking Word Count of Highlighted Text in Google Docs

If you’re working on an assignment, an article, or just need to keep track of your word count, Google Docs has got you covered. You can easily find out the word count of any highlighted text with just a few clicks. This guide will show you how to do it step by step. It’s super simple and only takes a few seconds. Let’s dive in!

How to Check Word Count of Highlighted Text in Google Docs

In this section, I’ll walk you through the steps to check the word count of any text you highlight in Google Docs. By the end of these steps, you’ll be able to quickly see the word count of specific sections of your document.

Step 1: Open Your Google Docs

First, open the Google Docs document that contains the text you want to count words for.

Just head to the Google Docs website, sign in with your Google account, and select the document. If you don’t have one ready, create a new document and paste some text in it.

Step 2: Highlight the Text

Next, click and drag your mouse over the text you want to highlight.

Make sure you only highlight the text you want to count. This can be a few words, a sentence, a paragraph, or even several paragraphs.

Step 3: Click on "Tools" in the Menu Bar

Go to the top of your screen and click on the "Tools" option in the menu bar.

The "Tools" menu is where you’ll find various options and tools that Google Docs offers. It’s located between "Insert" and "Add-ons."

Step 4: Select "Word count"

From the dropdown menu, select "Word count."

Once you click on "Tools," a dropdown menu will appear with several options. Look for "Word count" and click on it.

Step 5: View the Word Count for Highlighted Text

A dialog box will appear showing the word count for the highlighted text.

This box will give you a breakdown of the number of words, characters, and even characters excluding spaces. It’s a handy way to see exactly how much text you have selected.

After completing these steps, you’ll see the exact word count of your highlighted text. This is super helpful for keeping track of length requirements or just getting a quick check.

Tips for Checking Word Count of Highlighted Text in Google Docs

• Make sure your text is fully highlighted before checking the word count to get an accurate result.
• Use keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl+Shift+C on Windows or Command+Shift+C on Mac) to quickly bring up the word count dialog box.
• Remember that Google Docs counts all words, numbers, and symbols within the highlighted area.
• If you frequently need to check word counts, consider installing the "Word Counter Max" add-on for more features.
• Keep in mind that spaces and punctuation marks can affect character count but not word count.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check the word count of a whole document in Google Docs?

Yes, you can check the word count of the entire document by not highlighting any text and then following the same steps. The word count box will show the total count for the entire document.

How accurate is Google Docs’ word count feature?

Google Docs’ word count feature is very accurate. However, it may count certain special characters and symbols differently, which is standard across most word processors.

Is there a way to keep the word count visible while I type?

Currently, Google Docs does not have a feature to keep the word count visible while typing. You can, however, use keyboard shortcuts to quickly open the word count dialog box.

Does Google Docs count footnotes in the word count?

No, Google Docs does not include footnotes in the word count. It only counts the main body of the text.

Can I check the word count on the Google Docs mobile app?

Yes, you can check the word count on the Google Docs mobile app. Simply open your document, tap the three dots in the upper right corner, and select "Word count."

Summary

1. Open your Google Docs.
2. Highlight the text.
3. Click on "Tools."
4. Select "Word count."
5. View the word count for highlighted text.

Conclusion

In a world where word limits and precise writing are often required, knowing how to check the word count of highlighted text in Google Docs is a must-have skill. Whether you’re a student working on an essay, a writer drafting a novel, or a professional preparing a report, this quick and easy method will save you time and ensure you stay within your word limits.

Keep practicing this simple task to make it second nature. And remember, the next time you need to check your word count, Google Docs has your back!