Seeing the word count in Google Docs is super simple! All you have to do is click on “Tools” in the menu bar, then select “Word count.” A box will pop up that shows you the number of words, characters, characters excluding spaces, and pages in your document. You can also use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on a Mac). Now, let’s dive into a more detailed tutorial, shall we?
Step by Step Tutorial on How to See Word Count in Google Docs
Before we start clicking away, it’s good to know why checking your word count is helpful. It can keep you within a desired limit for an assignment or project, or simply satisfy your own curiosity about how much you’ve written.
Step 1: Open your document in Google Docs
Simply navigate to docs.google.com and open the document you want to check.
Opening your document is the first step because, well, you can’t see the word count of a document that isn’t open! Make sure you’re logged into your Google account so you can access all of your saved documents.
Step 2: Click on “Tools” in the menu bar
You’ll find the “Tools” option at the top of your document, between “Insert” and “Add-ons.”
The menu bar is like the control center for Google Docs. It’s where you can find all sorts of useful features, including the word count tool we’re looking for.
Step 3: Select “Word count” from the dropdown menu
After clicking on “Tools,” a dropdown menu will appear. “Word count” is usually the fifth option down.
Selecting “Word count” will open a small window that provides the information we’re after. This is where you’ll see how many words your document contains.
Step 4: Check the word count in the pop-up window
The pop-up window will show you the number of pages, words, characters, and characters excluding spaces.
This window is super handy because it breaks down the count into different categories. If you’re only interested in the word count, you can ignore the rest, but the additional info might be helpful for other purposes.
Step 5: Use the keyboard shortcut (Optional)
If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, you can press Ctrl+Shift+C (or Cmd+Shift+C on a Mac) to open the word count window.
Keyboard shortcuts can save you time and keep your hands on the keyboard. This particular shortcut is easy to remember because “C” stands for “count.”
After you complete the steps, the word count window will remain open until you close it. You can move it around if it’s blocking your view, or simply hit the “OK” button to make it disappear. Now you know exactly how many words your masterpiece contains!
Tips for Monitoring Word Count in Google Docs
- Keep an eye on your word count as you write to avoid going over any limits.
- Remember that the word count tool also shows the number of pages, which is useful for printing purposes.
- Use the keyboard shortcut to quickly access the word count without disrupting your writing flow.
- Google Docs automatically saves your work, so there’s no need to worry about losing your word count if you close the window.
- If you’re collaborating with others, remind them that they can also check the word count if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Google Docs count footnotes and endnotes in the word count?
No, Google Docs does not include footnotes and endnotes in the word count.
Can I see the word count as I type in Google Docs?
Yes, you can enable a live word count that updates as you type by clicking on “Tools,” then “Word count,” and checking the box that says “Display word count while typing.”
Will checking the word count interrupt my writing session?
No, the word count window is non-intrusive and can be moved around or closed without affecting your document.
Is the word count in Google Docs accurate?
Yes, the word count in Google Docs is generally accurate, but it may count some things like numbers or symbols differently than other word processors.
Can I check the word count of a selected portion of text?
Yes, simply highlight the text you want to count, then follow the steps to view the word count for just that selection.
Summary
- Open your document in Google Docs.
- Click on “Tools” in the menu bar.
- Select “Word count” from the dropdown menu.
- Check the word count in the pop-up window.
- Use the keyboard shortcut (Optional).
Conclusion
Knowing how to see the word count in Google Docs is a nifty skill that can be useful in many writing scenarios, whether you’re crafting an essay, penning a report, or simply curious about the length of your document. With the straightforward steps outlined above, you can easily check your word count without breaking a sweat. And remember, the word count tool in Google Docs is more than just a number—it’s a gateway to better writing discipline, helping you stay within the confines of your project’s requirements or personal goals. So, the next time you’re in Google Docs, give that word count tool a whirl and see how it can benefit your writing process!
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.