How to Include Footnotes in Word Count on Google Docs

Including footnotes in the word count in Google Docs is an easy process that only takes a few clicks. By default, Google Docs does not count footnotes in the overall word count of your document, but there is a simple way to include them. Let’s dive in and find out how you can ensure your footnotes are accounted for in your document’s word count.

Step by Step Tutorial: Including Footnotes in Word Count Google Docs

Before we start with the steps, it’s essential to know that Google Docs is a mighty tool that can help you organize and format your documents efficiently. Footnotes are a critical part of many academic and professional documents, and sometimes, they need to be included in the overall word count. The following steps will guide you through the process of including footnotes in your word count.

Step 1: Open your document in Google Docs

Open the document you’re working on in Google Docs.

This is where you’ll start. Make sure you’re logged into your Google account and navigate to the document that contains the footnotes you want to include in the word count.

Step 2: Click on "Tools" in the menu bar

Go to the menu bar at the top of the page and click on "Tools."

The "Tools" menu is where you’ll find various features that can help you customize your document. For our purposes, we’re interested in the word count feature.

Step 3: Select "Word count" from the dropdown menu

In the dropdown menu, click on "Word count."

After clicking on "Word count," a small window will appear, showing you the current word count of your document without the footnotes.

Step 4: Look for the checkbox that says "Include footnotes and endnotes"

In the word count window, find the checkbox that says "Include footnotes and endnotes."

This option is usually located at the bottom of the word count window. By default, it is unchecked.

Step 5: Check the box and click "OK"

Click on the checkbox to include footnotes and endnotes in the word count and then click "OK."

Once you’ve checked the box, the word count will update automatically to include the words from your footnotes and endnotes. Click "OK" to close the window and return to your document.

After completing these steps, your document’s word count will now include the footnotes. This updated word count will remain as long as you have the box checked. If you add more footnotes or make changes to existing ones, the word count will adjust accordingly.

Tips: Including Footnotes in Word Count Google Docs

• Make sure to double-check your work. Sometimes, footnotes can contain a significant number of words that could affect your document’s overall word count.
• Remember that not all institutions or guidelines require you to include footnotes in the word count; always check the specific requirements you need to meet.
• If you’re working on a collaborative document, inform your collaborators that you’ve included the footnotes in the word count to avoid any confusion.
• Use the word count feature regularly as you edit your document to keep track of your word count with footnotes included.
• If you’re unsure whether to include footnotes in the word count, consult with your professor, editor, or supervisor for clarification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the footnotes stay included in the word count if I close the document?

Yes, once you’ve checked the box to include footnotes in the word count, it will remain that way even if you close the document. When you reopen it, the footnotes will still be counted.

Can I exclude the footnotes from the word count after including them?

Yes, you can exclude the footnotes by simply unchecking the box in the word count window.

Does this method apply to endnotes as well?

Yes, the same steps apply to endnotes. The option in the word count window includes both footnotes and endnotes.

If I add more footnotes, do I need to repeat the process?

No, once you’ve included footnotes in the word count, any additional footnotes will automatically be counted. You don’t need to repeat the process.

Can I include footnotes in the word count on the mobile version of Google Docs?

As of now, the mobile version of Google Docs does not have the option to include footnotes in the word count. You will need to use the desktop version to access this feature.

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. Look for the checkbox that says "Include footnotes and endnotes."
5. Check the box and click "OK."

Conclusion

Including footnotes in the word count of your Google Docs document is a piece of cake once you know where to look. It’s all about clicking the right boxes and letting Google Docs do the rest. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or professional, ensuring your footnotes are included in your word count can be crucial for meeting specific requirements or just for keeping track of the length of your work.

Remember, it’s always wise to check with your institution or guidelines about whether footnotes should be counted. And once you’ve mastered this nifty little feature, you’ll find that Google Docs is full of surprises that can make your writing process a whole lot smoother. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch those footnotes add up in your word count google docs!