Changing the background in Google Docs is a straightforward process that requires you to go to the ‘File’ menu, select ‘Page Setup’, click on ‘Page Color’, choose your desired color, and click ‘OK’ to apply the change.
After completing this action, your Google Docs background will be instantly updated with your selected color, giving your document a personalized touch or making it easier on the eyes during long editing sessions.
Introduction
When it comes to customizing documents, most of us are familiar with adjusting fonts, adding images, or playing with margins. But did you know you can also change the background color in Google Docs? It’s a game-changer, seriously! Whether you’re a student looking to make your project pop, a professional wanting to brand your business documents, or just someone who enjoys a splash of color – knowing how to change the background in Google Docs is a nifty skill to have.
Picture this: you’ve been staring at a white screen for hours, and it’s starting to strain your eyes. Or maybe you need a specific background color to match your company’s branding guidelines. This is where the magic happens. With a few simple clicks, you can transform the look and feel of your document. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality. An appropriate background color can reduce eye strain, make your text stand out, and even influence the mood of the reader. So whether you’re looking to impress your boss or just make your work process a little more comfortable, let’s dive into how you can change the background in Google Docs.
Related: How to Change the Paper Size in Google Docs
Step by Step Tutorial to Change the Background in Google Docs
Before we start jazzing up your document, let’s understand what we’re about to do. These steps will guide you through altering the background of your Google Docs to a color of your choosing. It’s a simple process that can have a big impact on the visual appeal of your document.
Step 1: Go to the ‘File’ Menu
The first step is to click on the ‘File’ menu located in the upper left-hand corner of your Google Docs.
When you click on the ‘File’ menu, a dropdown will appear with various options. You’re looking for the ‘Page Setup’ option, which is usually found towards the bottom of the list.
Step 2: Select ‘Page Setup’
Once you find ‘Page Setup’, give it a click.
In the ‘Page Setup’ window, you’ll find options to adjust your document’s margins, orientation, and paper size. But for now, we’re focusing on the ‘Page Color’ option.
Step 3: Click on ‘Page Color’
Look for the ‘Page Color’ option in the ‘Page Setup’ window and click on it.
This will open a palette of colors to choose from. You can either pick a color from the available options or enter a custom color code if you have one.
Step 4: Choose Your Desired Color
Select the color that you want for your Google Docs background.
Remember, the color you choose can significantly affect the readability of your text, so choose wisely!
Step 5: Click ‘OK’ to Apply the Change
After selecting your color, click ‘OK’ to apply it to the background of your document.
And just like that, your document’s background is transformed! This can make your document more visually appealing or easier to read depending on the colors you choose.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Personalization | By changing the background color, you can add a personal touch to your documents. |
| Reduced Eye Strain | A darker background with light text can be easier on the eyes for some people. |
| Branding | Consistent use of company colors can reinforce brand identity in documents. |
Changing the background color of a Google Docs document allows for a more personalized and engaging document. A splash of color can set the tone and make your document stand out among a sea of standard white pages.
Using a darker background with lighter text can reduce eye strain, especially when working on documents for extended periods. This can enhance comfort and potentially productivity.
Maintaining brand consistency across company documents by using specific colors can reinforce brand identity and professionalism.
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Limited Options | Google Docs offers a limited color palette, which may not meet everyone’s needs. |
| Readability Concerns | Some color combinations can make text hard to read, impacting the document’s effectiveness. |
| Printing Considerations | Colored backgrounds can use a lot of printer ink and may not always print as expected. |
The color palette in Google Docs is somewhat limited, which may not offer the exact shade you’re looking for. This can be frustrating for users looking to match specific branding or design schemes.
Certain color combinations can result in poor contrast between the background and text, making it difficult for readers to comprehend the content. It’s essential to choose colors that ensure text is easily readable.
When printing documents with colored backgrounds, you may face high ink usage, and colors may not always appear on paper as they do on screen. This can lead to unexpected results and additional costs.
Additional Information
Now, you’re probably thinking, “That’s all great, but what else should I know?” Well, let’s talk about a few more things to keep in mind when changing the background in Google Docs. First off, the background color you choose on-screen might look different when printed due to variations in screen settings and printer capabilities. Always do a test print to avoid any surprises.
Also, consider the accessibility of your document. Not everyone sees color the same way, so be mindful when selecting color combinations to ensure they are accessible to individuals with color vision deficiencies. There are online tools available that can help you test the accessibility of your color choices.
Remember that while a colored background can make a document more visually appealing, the main goal is to convey your message effectively. Don’t let a bold background overshadow your content. The background should complement and enhance, not distract.
Summary
- Go to the ‘File’ menu
- Select ‘Page Setup’
- Click on ‘Page Color’
- Choose your desired color
- Click ‘OK’ to apply the change
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a custom background image instead of a color?
No, Google Docs currently only allows users to change the background color, not add custom images.
Will changing the background color affect the document’s sharing settings?
No, changing the background color will not impact your document’s sharing settings or permissions.
Can I set the background color for just one page in a document?
Changing the background color in Google Docs will apply to the entire document. It is not possible to change the background color for individual pages.
How do I revert to the default white background?
To revert to the default white background, follow the same steps and select ‘White’ as the color.
Does changing the background color in Google Docs apply to the mobile app as well?
The background color change will be visible in the mobile app, but currently, you can only change the background color through the web version of Google Docs.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now know how to change the background in Google Docs like a pro. Whether it’s to reduce eye strain, spruce up a school project, or keep your business documents on-brand, changing the background color is a simple yet powerful way to customize your work.
Remember to consider readability, printability, and accessibility when selecting your color. With this new skill in your arsenal, go ahead and give your documents the personal touch they deserve. Change the background in Google Docs today, and watch your work come alive!
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.