If you’re formatting a document like a newsletter, brochure, or multi-column layout, knowing how to fix columns in Google Doc is essential. While Google Docs offers a basic columns feature, it lacks some of the flexibility of professional layout software. But with the right settings and a few helpful tips, you can create and control columns effectively.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to insert and fix columns in Google Docs, adjust them for consistency, and avoid formatting issues that can disrupt your design.
Why Use Fixed Columns in Google Docs?
Columns help structure information visually. They’re useful for:
- 📰 Newsletters and announcements
- 📑 Articles or print-style documents
- 📋 Forms and sign-up sheets
- 📚 Academic writing with side notes
- 💼 Reports with structured layouts
Fixing columns ensures your content remains well-organized and doesn’t shift unexpectedly while editing.
How to Insert Columns in Google Docs
Steps to create columns:
- Open your Google Doc
- Highlight the text you want in columns
- Go to Format > Columns
- Choose 2 or 3 columns or select More options to customize spacing
- Click Apply
✨ Your text is now divided into columns, and you can start writing as if you were in a newspaper layout.
How to Fix Column Layout Issues
Sometimes, columns in Google Docs don’t behave as expected. Here’s how to manage and fix them:
🔧 Use Column Breaks
If text is overflowing or not aligned:
- Click where you want the next column to begin
- Go to Insert > Break > Column break
This ensures that content moves cleanly into the next column rather than overflowing naturally.
🔧 Keep Columns within a Section
To avoid affecting the entire document:
- Select only the section of the document you want in columns
- Apply the column format only to that selection
📌 Tip: Use Insert > Section break to isolate columns from other parts of the doc.
How to Prevent Columns from Shifting
Google Docs may shift content when new text is added. Here’s how to fix that:
- Avoid resizing margins or paper size after creating columns
- Lock column width using More options under Format > Columns
- Keep formatting consistent (font size, line spacing)
📏 Try to finalize layout and spacing before heavy editing begins.
Can You Freeze a Column Like in Google Sheets?
No, Google Docs does not support freezing columns like you can in Google Sheets. However, if you’re building a form or structured layout, you can simulate this by:
- Creating a two-column table
- Keeping the left column static (e.g., labels)
- Editing only the right column (e.g., input fields)
This keeps the left column visually fixed while you work on the right side.
Best Use Cases for Fixed Columns
- 📄 Resume layouts
- 🗞️ Print-friendly newsletters
- ✍️ Side-by-side comparisons
- 💬 Bilingual documents
- 🧾 Invoices or billing templates
With thoughtful formatting, columns can add clarity and a professional touch to any document.
FAQs on How to Fix Columns in Google Doc
Can I freeze a column in Google Docs like in Google Sheets?
No. Google Docs doesn’t allow freezing columns. You can simulate the effect using a table layout.
How do I move content to the next column?
Insert a column break at the desired position using Insert > Break > Column break.
Why do my columns keep shifting?
Column content may shift due to inconsistent formatting or added content. Use section breaks and fixed spacing to stabilize it.
Can I apply columns to only part of my document?
Yes. Highlight only the section you want to format, then apply column settings.
Can I control the spacing between columns?
Yes. Go to Format > Columns > More options to adjust spacing and add lines between columns.
Is there a way to lock the layout of columns?
Not entirely. But by finalizing margins, font sizes, and spacing, you can reduce layout shifts.
Conclusion: Fixing Columns in Google Docs for Professional Results
Now you know exactly how to fix columns in Google Doc and maintain a clean, structured format throughout your document. Whether you’re writing a newsletter, designing a resume, or building a form, fixed columns help make your layout more efficient and reader-friendly.
Use breaks, sectioning, and formatting options wisely — and your document will stay neat and professional from start to finish.
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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