Tracking the number of words in your Google Docs document is a breeze. You can see the word count for your entire document or for a specific section of text. It’s a handy feature for anyone who needs to keep their writing within a certain limit, like students or professionals. Let’s get started!
Step by Step Tutorial: How to See the Amount of Words in Google Docs
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand that Google Docs has a built-in word count tool. This tool helps you track how many words you’ve written, which is especially useful if you have a word limit to adhere to.
Step 1: Open your Google Docs document
Simply navigate to the Google Docs website and open the document you’re working on.
This step is pretty straightforward. If you’re not already signed in, make sure to sign in to your Google account to access your documents.
Step 2: Click on the ‘Tools’ menu
Look for the ‘Tools’ option on the top menu bar and click on it.
The ‘Tools’ menu is where you can find various options to customize and enhance your document.
Step 3: Select ‘Word count’ from the dropdown menu
In the ‘Tools’ menu, you’ll see an option labeled ‘Word count’. Click on it to open the word count box.
The word count tool is not only for words; it also shows the number of pages, characters, and characters excluding spaces.
Step 4: View your word count
A box will pop up displaying the number of words, along with pages, characters, and characters without spaces.
If you want to see the word count continuously as you type, check the box that says ‘Display word count while typing’.
Step 5: Click ‘OK’ to exit the word count box
After you have viewed your word count, click ‘OK’ to close the box and return to your document.
Remember, you can access the word count tool as many times as you need while you’re working on your document.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a clear idea of how many words are in your Google Docs document. This is useful if you’re aiming for a specific word count or just want to track your writing progress.
Tips for How to See the Amount of Words in Google Docs
- If you only want to count the words in a specific section of your document, simply highlight that section before opening the word count tool.
- You can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on a Mac) to open the word count box quickly.
- Remember that the word count tool counts everything in the document, including text in headers, footers, and footnotes.
- If you’re working on a collaborative document, the word count will update in real-time as others make edits.
- For a more in-depth analysis of your document, consider using third-party add-ons that offer additional word count features.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the word count visible while I type?
In the word count box, check the option that says ‘Display word count while typing’. This will keep a small box with the current word count at the bottom of your document.
Does Google Docs count words in tables?
Yes, Google Docs includes words in tables as part of the total word count for your document.
Can I see the word count on the Google Docs mobile app?
Yes, you can view the word count on the mobile app by tapping on the three dots in the top right corner and selecting ‘Word count’ from the menu.
Will the word count update automatically as I type?
If you have the ‘Display word count while typing’ option checked, the word count will update in real-time as you type.
Is there a limit to how many words Google Docs can count?
No, Google Docs can handle documents with a very high word count without any issues.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs document.
- Click on the ‘Tools’ menu.
- Select ‘Word count’ from the dropdown menu.
- View your word count in the pop-up box.
- Click ‘OK’ to exit the word count box.
Conclusion
Knowing how to see the amount of words in Google Docs is a skill that can greatly benefit writers of all kinds, whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who loves to write. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily keep track of your word count and ensure that your document meets any necessary requirements. Plus, with the additional tips and answers to frequently asked questions, you’re well-equipped to handle any word count-related challenges that come your way.
In conclusion, don’t let word count constraints hold you back. With Google Docs, you have the tools you need to write freely and keep track of your work effortlessly. So go ahead, start that essay, report, or novel, and watch the words flow onto the page!
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.