Need to highlight an entire document in one go? Here’s how to select all text in Google Docs 🖱️ using super simple shortcuts for Windows, macOS, and Ubuntu. Whether you’re formatting your whole doc, copying it, or applying styles in bulk, selecting all text instantly saves time and boosts your productivity.
Let’s explore all the methods to do this — from keyboard combos to mouse clicks and mobile tips!
🔑 Keyboard Shortcuts to Select All in Google Docs
The fastest and most efficient way to select all text is by using keyboard shortcuts:
| Action | Windows/Linux (Ubuntu) | macOS |
|---|---|---|
| Select All Text | Ctrl + A | Cmd + A |
🔹 These shortcuts instantly highlight everything in your document — from headers and body text to tables, images, and footnotes.
🖱️ How to Select All Text with a Mouse
Prefer to use a mouse?
- Click and drag from the beginning of the document to the end — but this can be time-consuming on large docs.
- For a faster method:
- Click inside the document.
- Go to Edit > Select all from the menu bar.
✔️ This does the same thing as the keyboard shortcut, without memorizing any keys.
✍️ When Should You Select All Text?
Selecting all text is useful when you want to:
- Change fonts or styles across the whole doc
- Copy the entire content for pasting elsewhere
- Clear formatting using
Ctrl + \(orCmd + \on Mac) - Delete everything with one tap of the Delete key
- Align content, adjust spacing, or apply heading styles to large sections
💡 It’s especially handy when working with templates, resumes, letters, and reports.
📲 How to Select All Text on Google Docs Mobile App
On Android or iOS:
- Tap the pencil icon to enter editing mode ✏️.
- Tap and hold any word.
- Use the Select all option from the pop-up menu.
Once all text is selected, you can cut, copy, format, or delete it.
📱 Note: Mobile selection might not always highlight headers or footers — you may need to adjust manually.
🧼 Pro Tip: Clear Formatting After Selecting All
After selecting all text, press:
Ctrl + \(Windows/Linux)Cmd + \(Mac)
This clears all fonts, colors, bold, italics, and other formatting — giving you a clean slate.
Perfect for resetting documents imported from other platforms or pasted from emails!
🛠️ Troubleshooting: Why Can’t I Select All?
If the “Select all” option isn’t working:
- Make sure your cursor is active inside the document.
- Refresh the page or check if you have editing rights.
- Avoid using select-all outside of embedded elements (like comment boxes or add-ons).
Still stuck? Try restarting your browser or switching to a different one (Chrome works best with Google Docs).
💬 FAQs About Google Docs Select All Text
What is the shortcut to select all text in Google Docs?
Use Ctrl + A (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + A (Mac) to instantly highlight all content.
Can I select all text and change the font?
Yes! Once selected, use the toolbar to apply font styles, sizes, colors, and spacing.
How do I copy everything in the document?
First, select all with Ctrl + A or Cmd + A, then copy with Ctrl + C or Cmd + C.
Will Select All include images and tables?
Yes. The shortcut selects all visible elements, including images, shapes, and tables.
Can I use Select All in a shared document?
Yes, as long as you have Editor access.
Is there a “Select All” button in Google Docs?
There’s no specific button, but you can access it through Edit > Select all or use the keyboard shortcut.
🟢 Final Thoughts: Mastering Google Docs Select All Text
With a simple shortcut or quick click, you can select all text in Google Docs and take full control of your content — whether you’re editing, formatting, or copying your work 📋. It’s one of the most basic, yet powerful tools that saves time and boosts efficiency.
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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