If you’ve ever wondered how to see word count in Google Docs, you’re in the right place! Here’s a quick overview: Open your Google Docs document, click on "Tools" in the menu bar, then select "Word count" from the dropdown menu. A box will pop up showing your document’s word count. It’s that simple!
How to See Word Count in Google Docs: Step-by-Step
This section will walk you through the steps to view the word count in Google Docs. By following these steps, you’ll have an exact count of how many words are in your document.
Step 1: Open Your Google Docs Document
First, open the Google Docs document where you want to see the word count.
Make sure you’re logged into your Google account and have the document ready. This should ideally be a document you are either working on or need to analyze.
Step 2: Click on the "Tools" Menu
Next, go to the menu bar at the top of the screen and click on "Tools."
The "Tools" menu is located between "Insert" and "Add-ons". Clicking on it will drop down a list of various functionalities.
Step 3: Select "Word count"
Now, from the dropdown menu, select "Word count."
This will open a new window that shows the word count for the entire document. This includes words, pages, characters with and without spaces.
Step 4: Check the Word Count Box
If the word count information box doesn’t show up automatically, click "OK" or "Close" to exit.
You can also check a box to display the word count while typing, which can be useful for ongoing projects. Just tick the checkbox if you want this feature.
Step 5: Review Your Word Count
Finally, review the word count information that appears in the window.
This window shows you the total number of words in your document, as well as additional details like the number of pages and characters.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a clear view of your document’s word count. Easy-peasy, right?
Tips for How to See Word Count in Google Docs
- Utilize keyboard shortcuts: Press Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on Mac) for quick access to word count.
- Display word count while typing: Check the box in the word count window to see live updates.
- For selected text: Highlight a specific part of the text, then go to Tools > Word count to get the count for that segment.
- Use Google Docs mobile app: Access word count on the go by selecting the three dots in the upper right corner of the app and choosing "Word count."
- Regular checks: Frequently check word count for ongoing projects to ensure you meet length requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find the word count on the Google Docs mobile app?
Yes, you can. Tap the three dots in the upper right corner, then select "Word count."
Is there a way to see the word count for a specific part of the document?
Absolutely. Highlight the text you want to count, then go to Tools > Word count.
How do I keep the word count visible while I type?
In the word count window, check the box that says "Display word count while typing."
Can I use a keyboard shortcut to see the word count?
Yes, press Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on a Mac) to quickly view the word count.
Does Google Docs count words in headers and footers?
No, Google Docs does not include text in headers, footers, or footnotes in the word count.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs document.
- Click on the "Tools" menu.
- Select "Word count."
- Check the word count box if needed.
- Review your word count.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—learning how to see word count in Google Docs is a breeze. Whether you’re a student needing to meet essay requirements, a writer keeping track of your novel’s length, or just someone curious about how many words you’ve typed, this simple task can be done in seconds. Google Docs makes it so easy that you might even find yourself checking the word count more often than you need to!
For ongoing projects, consider enabling the live word count feature to keep tabs on your progress without interrupting your workflow. And remember, you can always use keyboard shortcuts to make the process even faster.
Now that you’ve mastered this essential skill, why not explore other features Google Docs has to offer? There are tons of tools designed to streamline your writing process and make you more efficient. 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.