A Guide to Check Word Count in Google Docs

Google Docs is a highly adaptable and user-friendly tool for creating and sharing documents. Whether you’re writing an essay, an article, or any other type of written document, keeping track of the word count is a crucial part of content creation. To help you keep on top of your writing objectives, we’ll go over the easy ways to monitor the word count on the Docs app in this blog post.

Step 1: Open Your Document

Start by opening the Google Docs document for which you want to check the word count. If you haven’t already created a document, go ahead and start one.

Step 2: Locate the Word Count

In the top menu bar, you’ll find the “Tools” option. Click on it, and a drop-down menu will appear. From this menu, select “Word count.”

Step 3: Explore Word Count Information

A small window will pop up, displaying various pieces of information about your document. The “Word count” section will show you the total number of words in your document. Additionally, you can see the number of pages, characters (with and without spaces), and characters per word.

Step 4: Check Word Count in Real-Time

For those who prefer a real-time word count display, the Docs app offers a convenient option. At the bottom left corner of the document, you’ll find the count indicated. Click on it to toggle between the total word count and the word count for the selected portion of the document.

Step 5: Set Word Count Goals

Take advantage of Google Docs’ goal-setting feature to challenge yourself. In the word count window, click on “Set goal,” and you can establish a target word count for your document. The Docs app will track your progress and notify you when you reach your goal.

Step 6: Use Keyboard Shortcut

For efficiency, memorize the keyboard shortcut to check word count. On Windows or Chrome OS, press “Ctrl + Shift + C,” and on Mac, press “Command + Shift + C.” This will open the word count window instantly.

Conclusion:

When using Google Docs, writers, students, and professionals need to be aware of the word count. You can easily monitor and control your word count by following these simple steps, which will help you ensure that your publications are well-crafted and in line with your writing objectives. With Docs, counting words is easy and quick, regardless of your goal—being concise or meeting a word count requirement. Cheers to your writing!

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about checking word count on Google Docs:

Q1: How do I check the word count for a specific section of my document?

In Google Docs, highlight the section you want to check, and then navigate to “Tools” in the top menu bar. Select “Word count” to see the word count specifically for the highlighted portion.

Q2: Can I set word count goals in Google Docs?

Yes, Google Docs allows you to set word count goals. In the word count window, click on “Set goal,” and you can establish a target word count for your document.

Q3: What is the keyboard shortcut to check word count in Google Docs?

The keyboard shortcut to check word count in Google Docs is “Ctrl + Shift + C” on Windows or Chrome OS and “Command + Shift + C” on Mac.

Q4: Does Google Docs provide information on characters and pages as well?

Yes, the word count window in Google Docs provides information on characters (with and without spaces), pages, and characters per word.

Q5: Can I check word count in real-time while working on my document?

Yes, at the bottom left corner of your document in Google Docs, you’ll find a real-time word count display. Click on it to toggle between the total word count and the word count for the selected portion of the document.

Q6: How do I access the word count feature on the Google Docs mobile app?

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the mobile app doesn’t have a dedicated word count feature. However, you can check word count on a computer or use a web browser on your mobile device to access Google Docs and check word count.

Q7: Can I check the word count offline in Google Docs?

No, checking word count in Google Docs requires an internet connection. However, once the document is loaded, you can continue working offline, and the word count will update when you regain internet connectivity.

Q8: Does Google Docs count words automatically as I type?

Yes, Google Docs counts words automatically as you type. The real-time word count feature at the bottom left corner updates dynamically as you add or remove content from your document.

Q9: Can I use the word count feature on shared documents in Docs?

Yes, you can check the word count on shared documents in Google Docs, provided you have the necessary editing or viewing permissions.

Q10: How do I remove a word count goal in Docs?

To remove a word count goal in Google Docs, open the word count window, and click on “Clear goal.” This will remove the set word count target for your document.