How to display word count on Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping track of your word count in Google Docs is a breeze. Whether you’re a student trying to meet an essay requirement or a professional keeping an eye on document length, knowing how to display the word count is essential. Here’s the quickest way to do it: while in your document, simply go to the Tools menu and select "Word count." A box will pop up showing the number of pages, words, characters, and characters excluding spaces in your document. And just like that, you’re all set!

Step by Step Tutorial: Displaying Word Count on Google Docs

Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why you might need to display word count. Maybe you’re writing an article that has a word limit, or perhaps you’re a student trying to meet the requirements of an assignment. Whatever the reason, Google Docs has a built-in feature that makes it super easy to keep track of your word count as you write.

Step 1: Open your document in Google Docs

First things first – make sure you have your document open in Google Docs.
This is where all the magic happens. You can’t view the word count unless you’re in the actual document, so make sure you’re not just looking at the preview in Google Drive.

Step 2: Click on ‘Tools’ in the menu bar

Look for ‘Tools’ at the top of your screen and give it a click.
This menu is where you can find all sorts of useful features for working with your document, not just the word count.

Step 3: Select ‘Word count’ from the dropdown menu

In the ‘Tools’ dropdown, you’ll see ‘Word count’. Go ahead and select it.
This is the golden ticket to seeing your document’s stats.

Step 4: Check the word count in the pop-up box

A box will appear showing your document’s word count, among other things.
Here, you can see how many pages, words, characters, and characters without spaces your document has.

After completing these steps, the word count for your Google Docs document will be displayed in a pop-up box. This box can be closed by clicking the "OK" button. If you need to keep an eye on your word count as you write, you can also select the checkbox that says "Display word count while typing" to have a real-time count at the bottom of your document.

Tips for Managing Word Count on Google Docs

• If you need to keep an eye on your word count as you write, you can select the "Display word count while typing" option in the Word count box. This will show a small box with your word count at the bottom of the document.
• Remember that headers, footers, and footnotes are not included in the word count.
• If you only need to know the word count of a specific section, simply highlight that section and then open the Word count tool. It will show you the count for just the highlighted text.
• Keep in mind that Google Docs automatically saves your document as you work, so there’s no need to worry about losing your word count if you close the document.
• If you’re working on a document that needs to meet a certain word count, use the Word count tool regularly to ensure you’re on track.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the word count visible at all times?

When you open the Word count box, check the "Display word count while typing" option, and you’ll see a real-time word count at the bottom of your document.

Does the word count include text in headers and footers?

No, the word count feature in Google Docs does not include text in headers, footers, or footnotes.

Can I see the word count of a specific section of my document?

Yes, simply highlight the text you want to count, then go to "Tools" and select "Word count."

Will the word count update automatically as I type?

Yes, if you have the "Display word count while typing" option checked, the count will update automatically as you type.

Is there a shortcut to open the word count tool?

Yes, you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on Mac) to open the Word count box quickly.

Summary

1. Open your document in Google Docs.
2. Click on ‘Tools’ in the menu bar.
3. Select ‘Word count’ from the dropdown menu.
4. Check the word count in the pop-up box.

Conclusion

Displaying the word count on Google Docs is an invaluable tool for anyone who writes. It’s a simple process that takes only a few clicks but can significantly impact your writing workflow. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a student working on your first big essay, keeping track of your word count can help you manage your time, ensure you meet any length requirements, and keep your content concise and to the point. So next time you’re pounding away at the keyboard on Google Docs, remember these easy steps and tips to stay on top of your game. Your future self will thank you for maintaining that word count!