How to Copy and Paste on Google Docs: Want to duplicate text, images, or tables in your document? It’s easy to copy and paste on Google Docs 📋 using a few quick keystrokes or menu clicks. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu, Google Docs makes it simple to move or duplicate content with minimal effort. This is one of the most fundamental tools you need for fast, efficient document editing.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to copy and paste like a pro using keyboard shortcuts, mouse methods, and even mobile steps.
⌨️ Keyboard Shortcuts for Copy and Paste in Google Docs
The fastest way to copy and paste in Google Docs is by using universal shortcuts.
Action | Windows/Linux (Ubuntu) | macOS |
---|---|---|
Copy | Ctrl + C | Cmd + C |
Paste | Ctrl + V | Cmd + V |
Cut | Ctrl + X | Cmd + X |
Select All | Ctrl + A | Cmd + A |
✅ These shortcuts work across text, images, tables, links, and more!
🖱️ How to Copy and Paste Using Your Mouse
Prefer using the mouse? Here’s how:
- Highlight the text or object you want to copy.
- Right-click and choose Copy.
- Place your cursor where you want the content to appear.
- Right-click again and select Paste.
🖼️ This works for copying not just plain text but also entire sections including formatting and images.
🧹 Paste Without Formatting (Super Useful!)
Sometimes you want to paste text without bringing over fonts, colors, or links. Here’s how:
Action | Windows/Linux | macOS |
---|---|---|
Paste Without Formatting | Ctrl + Shift + V | Cmd + Shift + V |
✨ This is perfect when copying from websites, emails, or another document that uses different styling.
🛠️ How to Copy and Paste Tables or Images
To copy a table:
- Click and drag to select the entire table.
- Use
Ctrl + C
/Cmd + C
to copy. - Paste into a new spot using
Ctrl + V
/Cmd + V
.
To copy an image:
- Click the image to select it.
- Use the same shortcuts or right-click to copy and paste.
📎 Tip: Google Docs will maintain image size and alignment when pasting.
📱 How to Copy and Paste on Google Docs Mobile App
On Android or iOS:
- Open the Google Docs app and enter editing mode.
- Tap and hold the word or item you want to copy.
- Adjust the blue handles to highlight your selection.
- Tap Copy from the pop-up menu.
- Tap your desired location, then tap and hold to see the Paste option.
📲 This works for text and links. Images may require tapping More options > Copy depending on your device.
🔁 Copy and Paste Between Google Docs and Other Apps
Yes, you can easily copy content between:
- Google Docs ↔ Gmail
- Google Docs ↔ Google Sheets
- Google Docs ↔ Microsoft Word
When pasting from outside sources, use Ctrl + Shift + V
/ Cmd + Shift + V
if you want clean, unformatted content.
📋 Copying Comments or Suggestions
While copying normal content is easy, copying comments or suggestion threads is not supported natively. You’ll need to:
- Manually copy the text of comments, or
- Use version history to duplicate edits and comments in a new file.
📌 Comments don’t carry over when copying between documents unless you duplicate the entire file.
💬 FAQs About How to Copy and Paste on Google Docs
What’s the shortcut to copy and paste in Google Docs?
Use Ctrl + C
and Ctrl + V
on Windows/Linux, or Cmd + C
and Cmd + V
on macOS.
Can I paste without formatting?
Yes! Use Ctrl + Shift + V
(Windows) or Cmd + Shift + V
(Mac) to paste plain text.
Does Google Docs keep images and formatting when I paste?
Yes, unless you paste without formatting.
How do I copy content between different Google Docs?
Use the same shortcuts. Everything including text, images, and tables will transfer smoothly.
Can I copy an entire document?
Yes! Press Ctrl + A
/ Cmd + A
to select all, then copy and paste into a new Doc.
Does copying and pasting affect version history?
No. Paste actions are not shown in version history unless followed by edits.
🟢 Final Thoughts: How to Copy and Paste on Google Docs
Mastering how to copy and paste on Google Docs 📋 is a basic yet powerful skill that speeds up your workflow across writing, editing, and formatting tasks. Whether you’re moving text, duplicating designs, or pulling in content from another app, these methods ensure you work smarter — not harder.
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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