If your document has to meet certain requirements, such as when you are writing for school or a publication, then one of those requirements is often a word count.
If you are familiar with Microsoft Word, then you may know how to get a Microsoft Word character count using the useful tool in that application.
But the process is slightly different when you need a word count in Google Docs.
Fortunately that information is available to you, and you can even elect to display it on the screen as you are typing so that you don’t need to keep opening the tool.
Our guide below will show you how to get a word count in Google Docs.
How to Find the Word Count for a Google Doc
The steps in this article were performed in the desktop version of the Google Chrome Web browser, but will work in other desktop browsers too.
Step 1: Sign into Google Drive and open your document.
Step 2: Select the Tools tab at the top of the window.
Step 3: Click the Word count option.
You can then view your word count in the table.
Note that there is an option to display your word count as you are typing, so you can check that box if you would like to keep that information visible on the screen.
You can also see your word count by using the keyboard shortcut of Ctrl + Shift + C.
Additional reading
- How to change margins in Google Docs
- How to select all in Google Docs
- How to clear formatting in Google Docs
- How to change a link in Google Docs
- How to make Google Docs landscape
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.