How to Find Word Count on Google Docs
If you’re using Google Docs and need to find the word count of your document, you’re in luck because it’s super easy. You just need to go to the "Tools" menu and click on "Word count." This will give you a quick summary of the number of words, characters, and pages in your document.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Find Word Count on Google Docs
Wondering how to get the word count for your Google Docs file? Follow these simple steps to find out!
Step 1: Open Your Google Doc
First, open the document for which you want to find the word count.
After launching Google Docs and opening your file, make sure the document is fully loaded. This will ensure that all content is included in the word count.
Step 2: Click on the "Tools" Menu
Next, navigate to the top of the screen and click on "Tools."
This menu houses several useful functionalities, including the word count feature. Clicking it will display a list of options.
Step 3: Select "Word Count"
From the "Tools" dropdown, select "Word count."
Once you click on "Word count," a window will pop up showing the number of words, characters (with and without spaces), and pages.
Step 4: View Your Word Count
In the pop-up window, you’ll now see the word count along with additional statistics.
This feature is very handy if you have specific word limits to adhere to, like writing an essay or a report.
Step 5: Close the Word Count Window
Finally, click "OK" to close the word count window.
After reviewing your word count, you can return to editing your document by closing the pop-up window.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a clear idea of your document’s word count and other statistics. This ensures you stay within any specified limits.
Tips for Finding Word Count on Google Docs
- Use Keyboard Shortcut: Press Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on Mac) to quickly open the word count window.
- Select Specific Text: Highlight the text you want to count before opening the word count tool to see the count for only that section.
- Always Double-Check: For important documents, double-check the word count to make sure everything is included.
- Word Count in Status Bar: Check the "Display word count while typing" option in the word count pop-up to see the count in the status bar as you type.
- Character Count: Pay attention to both the word count and character count, especially if you have character limits to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I count words in a specific section of my Google Doc?
Simply highlight the section, then go to Tools > Word count. The count will update to show only the selected text.
Can I see the word count while I’m typing?
Yes, check the "Display word count while typing" option in the word count pop-up window to see it in the status bar as you type.
Are footnotes included in the word count?
No, footnotes are not included in the word count in Google Docs.
What if I need the character count instead of the word count?
The word count window also shows character count, both with and without spaces.
Is there a way to reset the word count?
No, but you can highlight specific sections to see their word count individually.
Summary
- Open your Google Doc
- Click on the "Tools" menu
- Select "Word Count"
- View your word count
- Close the Word Count window
Conclusion
Finding the word count on Google Docs is a straightforward process that ensures you keep your writing within any required limits. You just need to open the document, navigate to the "Tools" menu, and select "Word count" to get a detailed breakdown of your document’s statistics. Whether you’re crafting an essay, report, or any other document, knowing the word count can be crucial for meeting requirements and improving readability. Plus, with tips like using keyboard shortcuts and selecting specific text, you can make the process even quicker. If you ever find yourself wondering about the length of your document, just follow these simple steps, and you’ll know in no time. So next time you open Google Docs, try out these steps and see how easy it is to keep track of your word count.
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.