Got a Google Doc that you need to save as a Word doc? No problem! It’s a straightforward process that you can complete in just a few clicks. Once you’re done, you’ll have a Word version of your document that you can open and edit in Microsoft Word or share with somebody who prefers Word files. Ready to learn how? Let’s dive in!
Step by Step Tutorial to Save a Google Doc as a Word Doc
Before we get to the steps, let’s talk about why you might want to do this. Maybe you need to submit a document in Word format, or perhaps someone you’re working with doesn’t use Google Docs. Whatever the reason, converting your Google Doc to a Word doc is a useful skill to have.
Step 1: Open your Google Doc
Open the Google Doc that you want to save as a Word document.
When you open your Google Doc, make sure you’re logged into the correct Google account. If you’re working on a shared document, ensure you have editing permissions.
Step 2: Click on ‘File’
In the top left corner of your screen, click on ‘File’ in the menu bar.
The ‘File’ menu is where you’ll find all the options for saving and exporting your document.
Step 3: Go to ‘Download’
From the ‘File’ menu, hover over ‘Download.’ This will bring up a list of different file formats you can download your document as.
The ‘Download’ submenu shows several file types, such as PDF, RTF, and others. But for now, we’re interested in the Word format.
Step 4: Select ‘Microsoft Word (.docx)’
Click on ‘Microsoft Word (.docx)’ to download a Word version of your document.
After you click this option, your browser will start downloading the converted Word document. It’s usually saved in your ‘Downloads’ folder unless you’ve set a specific location for downloads.
After you complete these steps, you’ll have a Word document that you can open in Microsoft Word. It’s that simple!
Tips for Saving a Google Doc as a Word Doc
- Make sure your Google Doc is finalized before converting it because any changes made after won’t be reflected in the Word document.
- Check the formatting in your Word document after conversion, as some elements might look different.
- If you have comments or suggestions in your Google Doc, they won’t transfer to the Word doc.
- Remember that you can also convert Word documents back to Google Docs if needed.
- If you’re converting a document with images, double-check that they’ve all transferred correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I save a Google Doc as a Word doc on my phone?
Yes, you can use the Google Docs app to save a document as a Word file on your mobile device.
Will my Google Doc’s formatting stay the same in Word?
Most formatting will carry over, but some elements might look different or need adjustment.
Can I convert multiple Google Docs to Word at once?
No, you must convert each document individually, as Google Docs doesn’t currently support batch conversions.
What if I can’t find the ‘Download’ option?
Make sure you’re not in Suggesting mode or Viewing mode, as the ‘Download’ option only appears in Editing mode.
Is my Word document saved to Google Drive?
No, the converted Word file is downloaded to your computer. If you want it in Google Drive, you’ll need to manually upload it.
Summary
- Open your Google Doc
- Click on ‘File’
- Go to ‘Download’
- Select ‘Microsoft Word (.docx)’
Conclusion
Converting a Google Doc to a Word document is a handy trick that can save you a lot of hassle, especially when collaborating with folks who are more comfortable with Microsoft Office. Remember, it’s only a few simple clicks away, but always double-check your Word document to ensure everything is as it should be. With these tips and the knowledge of how to save a Google Doc as a Word doc, you’re now well-equipped to handle any document conversion task that comes your way. Whether you’re a student, professional, or just someone who likes to be prepared, mastering this skill is sure to come in handy. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how easy it is to switch between Google Docs and Microsoft Word!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.