How to Check Word Count on Google Docs: A Comprehensive Guide for Effortless Writing

how to check word count on google docs

## Introduction

Hey there, readers! Welcome to our handy guide on "how to check word count on Google Docs." You’ve come to the right place if you’re wondering how to effortlessly keep track of your word count while crafting masterpieces in Google Docs.

Whether you’re a student working on an essay, a writer fine-tuning your prose, or a content marketer hitting word count targets, keeping tabs on your word count is crucial. So, let’s dive right in and uncover the multiple ways to check your word count on Google Docs.

## 1. Quick and Easy Word Count Check

Method 1: Status Bar Display

The simplest method is to check the status bar located at the bottom of your Google Docs window. As you type, it will display a real-time word count alongside the page count and character count. It’s a great way to keep an eye on your word count without interrupting your writing flow.

Method 2: Word Count Tool

For a more detailed word count, click on "Tools" in the menu bar and select "Word Count." A pop-up box will appear, providing a breakdown of your word count, character count, page count, and the number of words you’ve selected (if any).

## 2. Advanced Word Count Options

Method 3: Exclude Words and Count Specific Sections

If you need to exclude certain words from the word count (e.g., headings or quotes), click on "Word Count" and choose "Options." Here, you can specify words to exclude and count only the words within a specific section of your document.

Method 4: Count Specific Types of Words**

For more granular analysis, Google Docs allows you to count specific types of words, such as nouns, verbs, or adjectives. To do this, select "Word Count," then click on "Advanced" and choose the desired category.

## 3. Keyboard Shortcuts for Efficient Checking

Method 5: Quick Word Count Check

Press "Ctrl + Shift + C" (Windows) or "Command + Shift + C" (Mac) to instantly display the word count in the status bar, even if it’s hidden.

Method 6: Detailed Word Count Pop-up

For a more detailed word count, press "Ctrl + Shift + W" (Windows) or "Command + Shift + W" (Mac). The same pop-up box that appears when you click on "Word Count" will appear.

## 4. Word Count Table: A Breakdown

Feature Description
Method How to check word count
Status Bar Real-time word count at the bottom of the window
Word Count Tool Detailed word count, character count, and page count in a pop-up box
Options Exclude words, count specific sections
Advanced Count specific types of words (nouns, verbs, etc.)
Quick Word Count Check Keyboard shortcut for quick word count display
Detailed Word Count Pop-up Keyboard shortcut for detailed word count in a pop-up box

## Conclusion

With these various methods at your disposal, checking word count on Google Docs is a breeze. Whether you prefer the simplicity of the status bar, the detailed analysis of the Word Count Tool, or the efficiency of keyboard shortcuts, you’re bound to find a method that suits your workflow.

So, next time you need to keep track of your word count while drafting a masterpiece in Google Docs, remember the tips and tricks outlined in this guide. And while you’re here, don’t forget to check out our other articles for more writing tips and tricks to elevate your writing game.

FAQ about how to check word count on Google Docs

How to check the word count in Google Docs?

Click on "Tools" in the menu bar, then select "Word count".

How to check the word count of a selection of text?

Highlight the text you want to count, then right-click and select "Word count".

How to exclude footnotes and endnotes from the word count?

Go to "Tools" > "Word count", then uncheck the "Include footnotes and endnotes" checkbox.

How to check the word count of a specific page or section?

Go to "View" > "Show document outline", then click on the page or section you want to count. The word count will appear in the status bar at the bottom of the window.

How to set a word count goal?

Go to "Tools" > "Word count", then enter the desired word count in the "Set goal" field. A progress bar will appear in the status bar, showing your progress towards the goal.

How to view the word count in different languages?

Go to "Tools" > "Word count", then click on the "Language" drop-down menu and select the desired language.

How to remove the word count from the status bar?

Go to "Tools" > "Word count", then uncheck the "Show word count" checkbox.

How to check the word count of a document in another format?

Go to "File" > "Download" > "Microsoft Word (.docx)", then open the document in Microsoft Word and use the built-in word count feature.

How to check the word count of a document without using Google Docs?

There are several free online word counters available, such as WordCounter.net and FreeWordCount.com.

How to check the word count on a mobile device?

Open the Google Docs app on your mobile device, then tap on the "More" icon (three dots) in the top right corner and select "Word count".