How to Do Word Count on Mac
Counting words on a Mac is super simple and can be done using various built-in apps. Whether you’re using Pages, Microsoft Word, or even a plain text editor like TextEdit, you’ll find that each program has a straightforward way to count your words. Here’s a quick and easy way to get it done.
How to Do Word Count on Mac
Ready to count words on your Mac? This tutorial will show you how to use different methods depending on your preferred word processing application.
Step 1: Open your document
First, open the document you want to count the words in.
If you’re using Pages, Microsoft Word, or TextEdit, simply double-click your file to open it. Each program has a unique method for opening documents, but it’s usually just a matter of double-clicking the file or dragging it into the app.
Step 2: Use the word count feature
Pages: Click on the "View" menu and select "Show Word Count."
Microsoft Word: Go to the "Review" tab and click on "Word Count."
TextEdit: Convert your document to rich text format (RTF) by selecting "Format" > "Make Rich Text". Then, go to "Tools" and select "Show Word Count."
Each program has its own way to show word count, but they all make it easy to find. Once you select the appropriate menu option, a word count box will usually appear at the bottom or as a pop-up.
Step 3: Check the word count
Review the word count that appears on your screen.
In Pages, the word count appears at the bottom of the window. In Microsoft Word, a pop-up will show you the total word count. For TextEdit, the word count will appear in a small window.
Step 4: Customize your word count (if needed)
Some programs allow you to customize what you see in the word count.
In Pages, you can click on the word count to see more details like character count. In Microsoft Word, the word count pop-up also shows characters, lines, and paragraphs. TextEdit is more basic, showing only the total word count unless you use additional tools or scripts.
Step 5: Close the word count feature
When you’re done, you can close the word count feature by clicking the close button or unchecking the word count option in the menu.
After you close the word count feature, you can go back to your regular work without the distraction of the word count display.
Once you complete these steps, you’ll know the exact number of words in your document. This can be incredibly helpful for meeting word limits or understanding the length of your work.
Tips for Word Count on Mac
- Use keyboard shortcuts: Some apps allow you to use keyboard shortcuts for quicker access to the word count feature.
- Check often: Regularly check your word count as you write to stay on track with your goals.
- Use third-party apps: If your primary app doesn’t have a robust word count feature, consider using third-party apps like Scrivener.
- Keep the word count visible: Some programs let you keep the word count visible as you type, which can be motivating.
- Understand the difference: Some programs count words differently, so make sure you understand how your app counts words, especially if you have specific requirements to meet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I count words in a PDF on Mac?
Open the PDF in Preview, copy the text, and paste it into a word processor like Pages or TextEdit to count the words.
Can I count words in a web browser on Mac?
Yes, you can use online word count tools or browser extensions to count words on web pages.
Does counting words slow down my Mac?
No, counting words is a basic task that won’t slow down your Mac.
How do I count words in Google Docs on a Mac?
In Google Docs, go to "Tools" and select "Word count."
Can I count words in emails on Mac?
Yes, you can copy the text of the email and paste it into a word processor or use an email app that has a built-in word count feature.
Summary
- Open your document.
- Use the word count feature.
- Check the word count.
- Customize your word count (if needed).
- Close the word count feature.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Counting words on a Mac is a breeze once you know where to look. Whether you’re using Pages, Microsoft Word, or TextEdit, each program offers a simple way to find out just how many words you’ve written. This skill is particularly handy for students working on essays, writers polishing their novels, or professionals drafting reports. Understanding how to do word count on a Mac can help you focus on content without getting bogged down by unnecessary details.
So, the next time you’re wondering if you’ve hit your word count target, just follow these steps. You’ll be a pro in no time. Happy writing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.