If you’re looking to use the same footnote twice in Google Docs, it’s simpler than you might think. By using bookmarks and hyperlinks, you can reference the same footnote multiple times in your document. Here’s a step-by-step guide to show you exactly how to do it.
How to Use the Same Footnote Twice in Google Docs
In the following steps, you’ll learn how to reference a single footnote at multiple points in your document. This will ensure your readers don’t have to search for the original footnote, making your document more user-friendly.
Step 1: Insert the First Footnote
First, insert the initial footnote where you want it to appear.
Navigate to the spot in your Google Doc where you want to place your footnote. Click on "Insert" in the toolbar, then select "Footnote." Type your footnote text.
Step 2: Bookmark the Footnote
Next, create a bookmark at the footnote location.
Place your cursor at the start of your footnote text. Click on "Insert" again, then select "Bookmark." A small blue bookmark icon will appear at this spot.
Step 3: Create a Hyperlink to the Bookmark
Now, hyperlink the footnote reference to the bookmark.
Go to the location in your document where you want to reference the same footnote again. Highlight the text where you want the link to appear. Click on "Insert" and then "Link." Choose "Bookmarks" from the link options and select the bookmark you created.
Step 4: Repeat for Additional References
Repeat the hyperlinking process for every additional reference to the same footnote.
You can follow the same steps as in Step 3 to create as many hyperlinks to the original footnote as you need. This ensures all references point back to the initial footnote.
Step 5: Test Your Links
Finally, make sure all your hyperlinks work correctly.
Click each hyperlink you created to verify that they all navigate back to the original footnote. If any don’t work, revisit the steps to correct them.
After completing these steps, your document will have multiple references to a single footnote, making it easier for readers to follow along.
Tips for How to Use the Same Footnote Twice in Google Docs
- Keep Your Bookmarks Organized: Give each bookmark a unique and descriptive name to avoid confusion.
- Use Consistent Formatting: Ensure that your footnotes and hyperlinks match the style of your document.
- Check Links Regularly: Especially in long documents, make sure your hyperlinks haven’t broken.
- Simplify the Process: If you frequently use multiple references, consider creating a template.
- Provide Clear Footnotes: Make sure your footnote text is specific and provides valuable information.
FAQ
Can I use the same footnote multiple times in other word processors?
Yes, the process is similar in other word processors like Microsoft Word. You use bookmarks and hyperlinks to achieve the same result.
What happens if I delete the original footnote?
If you delete the original footnote, all links to it will no longer work. Always check your links after making changes.
Can I edit the footnote after creating bookmarks?
Yes, you can edit the footnote text, but remember to check that the bookmarks and hyperlinks still function correctly.
How do I remove a bookmark?
To remove a bookmark, go to "Insert," click on "Bookmark," and then click "Remove" next to the bookmark you want to delete.
Are there limitations to using bookmarks and hyperlinks in Google Docs?
While bookmarks and hyperlinks are versatile, they might not be perfect for complex documents with many footnotes. Always test your document thoroughly.
Summary
- Step 1: Insert the First Footnote.
- Step 2: Bookmark the Footnote.
- Step 3: Create a Hyperlink to the Bookmark.
- Step 4: Repeat for Additional References.
- Step 5: Test Your Links.
Conclusion
Using the same footnote twice in Google Docs can streamline your document and make it more reader-friendly. By following these steps, you can create a seamless experience for your audience, ensuring they don’t have to search for footnote information repeatedly.
If you often find yourself needing to reference the same piece of information multiple times, mastering this technique can save you a lot of time and make your documents look more professional.
Feel free to experiment with other features in Google Docs to optimize your workflow further. Bookmark this guide and return to it whenever you need a refresher. 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.