If you’re working on a list, directory, or any structured content, knowing how to sort alphabetically in Google Docs can save you time and effort. While Google Docs does not have a native sort feature like Google Sheets, there are still quick ways to sort alphabetically in Google Docs using built-in tools and free add-ons.
Whether you’re organizing names, items, or paragraphs, this guide walks you through everything step-by-step so you can get perfectly sorted content in seconds.
Why You Might Want to Alphabetize in Google Docs
Sorting text alphabetically helps you:
- 📋 Organize lists or bullet points
- 👥 Arrange names or attendee lists
- 🛍️ Sort inventory or product items
- 📚 Make your documents easier to scan and navigate
- ✅ Ensure consistency and improve professional presentation
When content is sorted logically, it’s easier to find what you need and looks much cleaner.
Is There a Built-In Sort Feature in Google Docs?
❌ No, Google Docs doesn’t include a native “Sort A to Z” button like in Google Sheets. But you can still get the job done with a simple add-on or manual method.
Method 1: Use the “Sorted Paragraphs” Add-on
This is the fastest way to sort any selection of text.
✅ Steps to Install and Use:
- Open your Google Docs document
- Highlight the text you want to sort
- Click Extensions > Add-ons > Get add-ons
- Search for “Sorted Paragraphs” and install it
- Go to Extensions > Sorted Paragraphs
- Choose either Sort A to Z or Z to A
✔️ Your text will now be sorted alphabetically!
This method works great for single-column content like lists, paragraphs, or line-separated data.
Method 2: Copy to Google Sheets and Back
If you prefer not to use add-ons:
- Copy the list or text from Google Docs
- Paste it into a blank Google Sheets document
- Use Data > Sort range in Sheets
- Copy the sorted content
- Paste it back into your Google Doc
🧩 This workaround is reliable and leverages Sheets’ powerful sorting capabilities.
Method 3: Manual Sorting for Short Lists
For small lists, you can sort manually:
- Highlight and cut each item
- Paste them back in order
- Or retype directly in the preferred order
While time-consuming, this is fine for quick edits when the list is under 10 items.
Tips for Better Alphabetical Sorting
- Avoid blank lines between items
- Use consistent formatting (no indents or bullets if possible)
- For mixed-case words, sorting is typically case-insensitive
- Use paragraph breaks, not line breaks, for clean sorting
🧠 Clean formatting improves sorting accuracy and reduces errors.
Use Cases for Alphabetical Sorting in Google Docs
- 📑 Class or contact lists
- 🛒 Product catalogs
- 🧠 Glossaries or word banks
- 🗂️ Meeting agendas or reports
- 🖋️ Bibliographies and citations
Alphabetizing keeps your document clear and professionally organized.
FAQs: How to Sort Alphabetically in Google Docs
Does Google Docs have an A-Z sort button like Google Sheets?
No, but you can use the “Sorted Paragraphs” add-on or copy to Sheets to sort.
Can I alphabetize bullet points?
Yes, just highlight the bulleted list and use the add-on to sort. The bullets will stay in place.
Will sorting change my formatting?
Only the order of the text changes. Font style, size, and alignment are preserved.
Is the Sorted Paragraphs add-on free?
Yes, it’s free and lightweight, making it ideal for simple sorting tasks.
Can I sort tables alphabetically in Google Docs?
You must copy the table to Google Sheets to sort, as Docs doesn’t support table sorting natively.
Does sorting work with numbers too?
Yes, numerical sorting works in ascending or descending order using the same method.
Conclusion: Sort Alphabetically in Google Docs with Ease
Now that you know how to sort alphabetically in Google Docs, you can keep your lists, names, and paragraphs organized with just a few clicks. Whether you use the “Sorted Paragraphs” add-on or a simple Google Sheets trick, sorting content in Docs has never been easier.
Keep your documents tidy, professional, and easy to navigate with these methods!
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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