Want to duplicate a word or phrase instantly? Here’s exactly how to copy and paste words on Google Docs 📄 using lightning-fast shortcuts and click-based methods on Windows, macOS, and Ubuntu. Whether you’re editing a report, composing an essay, or organizing a newsletter, copying individual words is one of the simplest yet most powerful editing skills to master.
Let’s explore the easiest ways to copy and paste single words (or short phrases) efficiently — and like a pro 💻.
⌨️ Keyboard Shortcuts for Copy and Paste (All Systems)
Use these universal shortcuts to quickly copy and paste one or more words in Google Docs:
| Action | Windows/Linux (Ubuntu) | macOS |
|---|---|---|
| Copy | Ctrl + C | Cmd + C |
| Paste | Ctrl + V | Cmd + V |
| Cut | Ctrl + X | Cmd + X |
| Select Word | Double-click the word | Double-click the word |
✅ Just double-click the word you want, then copy and paste it anywhere else in the document!
🖱️ Mouse Method: Copy and Paste a Word
If you prefer using your mouse:
- Double-click the word to highlight it.
- Right-click on the selected word and choose Copy.
- Move your cursor to the desired location.
- Right-click and select Paste.
🎯 This method works great when you’re editing with your hands on the mouse rather than the keyboard.
💡 Paste Without Formatting (Clean Copy)
Want to paste a copied word without bringing over bold, italic, or link styles?
Use this special shortcut:
| Action | Windows/Linux | macOS |
|---|---|---|
| Paste Without Formatting | Ctrl + Shift + V | Cmd + Shift + V |
This is especially useful when copying from:
- Websites
- Emails
- Other Google Docs
🧽 It keeps your formatting clean and consistent.
📥 Copying & Pasting Multiple Words or Phrases
Need to copy several words but not the entire sentence?
- Click and drag your cursor over the desired words.
- Use
Ctrl + C/Cmd + Cto copy. - Place your cursor where you want to paste.
- Use
Ctrl + V/Cmd + Vto paste.
📌 Tip: Holding Shift + Arrow Keys also lets you highlight words using only the keyboard.
📱 Copy and Paste Words on Google Docs Mobile
Using Google Docs on Android or iOS? No problem!
- Tap and hold on a word until it highlights.
- Drag the selection handles to adjust if needed.
- Tap Copy from the menu.
- Tap where you want to paste and hold.
- Tap Paste when the option appears.
📲 Works for copying within the same document or across apps.
🛠️ Troubleshooting: Copy and Paste Not Working?
If you’re having trouble copying words in Google Docs:
- Make sure your cursor is in an editable section of the document.
- Try refreshing the browser or using Google Chrome for better compatibility.
- Use keyboard shortcuts instead of mouse menus for smoother functionality.
- Disable browser extensions that might block clipboard access.
Still stuck? Try opening Google Docs in incognito mode or clear your browser cache.
💬 FAQs About How to Copy and Paste Words on Google Docs
What’s the quickest way to copy a single word in Google Docs?
Double-click the word, press Ctrl + C (Windows) or Cmd + C (Mac), and paste it with Ctrl + V or Cmd + V.
Can I copy and paste multiple words at once?
Yes! Highlight as many words as you want, then copy and paste using the same shortcuts.
Will copying a word also copy its formatting?
Yes — unless you use Paste Without Formatting (Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + V).
Why is my paste function not working?
Make sure the Google Doc is editable and no browser extensions are interfering.
Can I copy a word from one document and paste into another?
Absolutely! You can even copy from external apps or websites.
Does copying text in Google Docs affect the version history?
No — copying and pasting doesn’t appear in version history unless followed by changes.
🟢 Final Thoughts: How to Copy and Paste Words on Google Docs
Whether you’re reusing keywords, reorganizing phrases, or just moving text around, knowing how to copy and paste words on Google Docs 📄 is a basic skill that saves time and boosts editing speed. With just a double-click and a couple of keys, you’ll fly through your writing and formatting tasks like a true Docs expert.
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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