Changing the background color on Google Docs is a simple process that can make your document look more visually appealing and help you organize your work. In just a few clicks, you can customize the background color to fit your needs.
Step by Step Tutorial on Changing the Background Color on Google Docs
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s understand what these steps will do. Changing the background color can make your document easier to read, help you categorize different documents, or simply make your work more personalized and fun.
Step 1: Open your Google Docs document
Open the document in which you want to change the background color.
You’ll need to be logged into your Google account and have the document you want to change open in front of you.
Step 2: Click on “File” in the top menu
In the top menu of the document, click on “File” to open the dropdown menu.
This action will reveal a list of options related to your document’s settings and features.
Step 3: Select “Page setup” from the dropdown menu
In the dropdown menu, scroll down and select “Page setup.”
This will open a dialog box where you can change the settings for your document’s pages.
Step 4: Click on the “Page color” option
In the “Page setup” dialog box, you’ll see an option for “Page color.”
Clicking this will open a color palette where you can select your preferred background color.
Step 5: Choose your desired color
From the color palette, click on the color you want to use as your background.
You can choose from the default colors provided or create a custom color by clicking on the “+” button.
Step 6: Click “OK” to apply the changes
After selecting your color, click “OK” to apply the changes to your document.
You will immediately see the background color of your document change to your selected color.
After you complete these steps, your Google Docs document will have a fresh new background color of your choosing. This can make your document stand out, be easier on the eyes, or align with a theme or project you’re working on.
Tips for Changing the Background Color on Google Docs
- Make sure you’re signed into your Google account before attempting to change the background color.
- If you’re creating a document for professional purposes, stick to subtle or neutral colors to maintain a formal look.
- Custom colors can be saved for future use by clicking the “Add custom color” button after selecting your color.
- Keep in mind that if you print your document, the background color may use a lot of ink.
- To reset the background color to the default white, simply go back to “Page setup” and select “White” as the color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply a background color to only one page?
No, the background color change will apply to the entire document.
Will changing the background color affect the text color?
No, changing the background color will not automatically change the text color. However, you may want to adjust the text color for better readability.
Can I use a picture as a background in Google Docs?
Google Docs does not support using images as a background for the entire page. You can insert images, but they will not serve as a page background.
Is it possible to set a default background color for all my Google Docs?
No, each document’s background color must be set individually.
Can I change the background color of a shared document?
Yes, as long as you have editing permissions for the shared document, you can change the background color.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs document
- Click on “File” in the top menu
- Select “Page setup” from the dropdown menu
- Click on the “Page color” option
- Choose your desired color
- Click “OK” to apply the changes
Conclusion
Customizing the background color on Google Docs is a breeze with these straightforward steps. Whether you’re looking to make your document more readable, organize your files by color, or just inject some personality into your work, a splash of color can make all the difference. Remember, while it’s fun to play around with different hues, consider your audience and the purpose of the document when selecting a color. If you’re sharing the document, communicate with your collaborators to ensure the color works for everyone involved. Now that you know how to change the background color on Google Docs, go ahead and give your documents a personal touch that’ll make them pop!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.