To remove columns in Google Docs and go back to a single column, select the text in columns (or click anywhere in that section), click Format > Columns, and choose the one-column preset. The text flows back across the full page width. If you meant a column in a table, right-click a cell in that column and choose Delete column.
Below you’ll find steps for both, how to remove column breaks, and how to fix text that stays in columns.
How to remove text columns
- Click inside the text that’s in columns. If only part of the document uses columns, select that text.
- Click Format > Columns.
- Click the one-column option (the first preset).
You can also click More options and set Number of columns to 1.
How to remove a column break
Column breaks force text into the next column. Place your cursor right after the break and press Backspace. To see breaks, turn on View > Show non-printing characters.
How to delete a column in a table
- Right-click any cell in the column you want to remove.
- Choose Delete column.
To delete several columns, select cells across them first. To remove the whole table, right-click and choose Delete table.
Troubleshooting
- Only part of the text changes: Columns can apply to a section. Select all the column text, or click inside each section, and set it to one column.
- No Columns option: Your document may be in Pageless format, which doesn’t support columns. Switch to Pages in File > Page setup.
- Mobile app: The Google Docs app can’t change columns. Use a computer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use columns in only part of a document?
Yes. Select the text first, then choose a column layout. Docs adds section breaks around it.
How do I add space between columns?
Go to Format > Columns > More options and change Spacing.
Will removing columns delete my text?
No. Your text just reflows into one column.
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.