Turning a Word document into a Google Doc takes two steps: upload the .docx file to Google Drive, then save it as Google Docs. After that you can edit it in your browser, share it, and collaborate in real time. Your original Word file stays untouched, so you always have a backup.
Quick answer
Upload the Word file to Google Drive, double-click it to open it, then choose File > Save as Google Docs. A new Google Doc appears in the same folder.
Method 1: Upload, then Save as Google Docs
- Go to drive.google.com and sign in.
- Select New > File upload and choose your .docx or .doc file, or drag it into the Drive window.
- Double-click the uploaded file. It opens in Google Docs with a blue “.DOCX” label next to the name, meaning it’s still a Word file.
- Choose File > Save as Google Docs. Google creates a converted copy and opens it.
Method 2: Convert every upload automatically
- In Google Drive, select the gear icon > Settings.
- Tick Convert uploads to Google Docs editor format.
- From now on, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files you upload become Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides automatically.
Files you uploaded before turning this on aren’t converted; use Method 1 for those.
Method 3: Open from inside Google Docs
In Google Docs, select File > Open > Upload and choose the Word file. It opens in Office-compatible mode; then use File > Save as Google Docs. For more upload options, see uploading a document to Google Docs.
Edit without converting
You don’t have to convert at all. Google Docs can edit .docx files directly in Office-compatible mode, saving changes back to the Word file. This is handy when you’ll send the file back to someone who uses Word. Some Google features, like smart chips, aren’t available in this mode.
What carries over and what might change
| Converts well | May change |
|---|---|
| Text, headings, lists, and basic tables | Fonts not available in Google Docs |
| Images and links | Text boxes, SmartArt, and complex layouts |
| Comments and tracked changes (as suggestions) | Macros (removed) and some fields such as tables of contents |
| Headers, footers, and page numbers | Page breaks and spacing |
Check the converted document before sharing it, especially layouts with columns or text wrapping.
On a phone or tablet
In the Google Docs app, tap the folder icon, choose the Word file from Drive or your device, then use the three-dot menu and select Save as Google Docs (on iPhone, look under Share & export).
Frequently asked questions
Does converting delete the Word file?
No. The .docx stays in Drive next to the new Google Doc. Delete it yourself if you don’t need it.
Can I paste from Word instead?
Yes, but uploading keeps formatting better. See pasting from Word into Google Docs with formatting.
How do I turn it back into Word later?
Use File > Download > Microsoft Word (.docx). See converting a Google Doc to Word.
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.