Google Docs is a powerful word processing tool, and knowing how to check your word count can be incredibly helpful for assignments, reports, and other writing tasks. To check your word count in Google Docs, open your document, click on "Tools" in the menu at the top, and then select "Word count." This will show you the number of words, characters, and pages in your document.
How to Word Check on Google Docs
In the following steps, you’ll learn how to quickly and easily check the word count in your Google Docs document. This guide will make sure you can keep track of your writing progress without any hassle.
Step 1: Open your Google Docs document
First, open the Google Docs document where you want to check the word count.
Ensure that the document you want to edit is fully loaded before you proceed. If it’s a large document, it might take a little longer to open.
Step 2: Click on "Tools" in the menu
Next, navigate to the top of the screen and click on "Tools" in the menu bar.
The “Tools” menu contains various helpful features, including the word count option. It’s usually located between the “Insert” and “Add-ons” menus.
Step 3: Select "Word count"
After clicking on "Tools," a drop-down menu will appear. Click on "Word count."
Selecting "Word count" will open a small window showing the number of words, characters, and pages in your document.
Step 4: View the word count window
A window will pop up displaying your document’s word count, character count, and more.
This window provides a comprehensive overview of your document’s length, which can be crucial for meeting specific writing requirements.
Step 5: Check "Display word count while typing" (optional)
For ongoing projects, you might want to keep an eye on your word count. Check the box that says "Display word count while typing."
With this option checked, Google Docs will show a small word count box at the bottom left of your screen, updating in real-time as you type.
Once you complete these steps, you’ll know exactly how many words are in your document, which can help you stay within any required limits or track your progress.
Tips for How to Word Check on Google Docs
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Press Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on Mac) to quickly bring up the word count window.
- Live Word Count: Enable "Display word count while typing" to monitor your progress without having to manually check each time.
- Word Count for a Section: Highlight a section of text before opening the word count window to see the word count for just that section.
- Character Count: Google Docs also provides character count, which is useful for social media posts or other projects with character limits.
- Google Docs Add-ons: Explore add-ons that provide more advanced word count features if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check the word count on the Google Docs mobile app?
Yes, you can. Open your document, tap the three dots in the upper right corner, and then select "Word count."
How do I check the word count for selected text?
Highlight the text you want to count, then go to Tools > Word count, and the window will show the count just for the highlighted section.
Does Google Docs count footnotes in the word count?
No, Google Docs does not include footnotes in the total word count.
Can I customize what appears in the word count window?
Currently, Google Docs does not allow customization of the word count window. It will always show words, characters, and pages.
Is there a way to keep the word count window open while I type?
Yes, by checking "Display word count while typing" in the word count window, a small box will appear at the bottom left of your screen.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs document.
- Click on "Tools" in the menu.
- Select "Word count."
- View the word count window.
- Check "Display word count while typing" (optional).
Conclusion
Checking your word count in Google Docs is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your writing workflow. Whether you’re working on a school assignment, a professional report, or a personal project, knowing how many words you have written can help you meet your goals and stay within any required limits.
Taking the time to familiarize yourself with tools like word count can make a big difference in your productivity and the quality of your work. So, next time you’re in Google Docs, don’t forget to use these tips and tricks to keep your writing on track.
For more advanced features, consider exploring Google Docs add-ons that can offer additional functionality. Stay tuned for more tips, and 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.