Startseite » Google Docs EN » How to Check Word Count on Google Docs Effortlessly

How to Check Word Count on Google Docs Effortlessly

If you’re wondering how to check the word count on Google Docs, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re working on an essay, blog post, or report, knowing your word count is essential. Google Docs makes it easy to monitor your writing progress using built-in features and handy keyboard shortcuts. Let’s explore how to do it efficiently on Windows, macOS, and Ubuntu systems. 🧑‍💻✨

Why Knowing Word Count Matters

Whether you’re a student sticking to a page limit, a journalist meeting an editorial requirement, or a blogger optimizing content for SEO, word count plays a vital role. Google Docs provides a simple way to track it—no add-ons or external tools required.

Word Count in Google Docs on Windows 🪟

Google Docs makes it very straightforward to check word count on Windows devices.

Using the Menu:

  1. Open your document.
  2. Go to the top menu bar and click on Tools.
  3. Select Word count from the dropdown menu.
  4. A pop-up window will appear showing the number of words, characters (with and without spaces), and pages.

Keyboard Shortcut (Windows):

Ctrl + Shift + C

This shortcut instantly opens the word count dialog box—perfect for staying in flow while writing. ⚡

Word Count in Google Docs on macOS 🍏

On a Mac, the process is nearly identical, with a slight difference in the keyboard shortcut.

Using the Menu:

  1. Open your Google Docs document.
  2. Click on Tools in the top menu.
  3. Choose Word count.

Keyboard Shortcut (macOS):

Command + Shift + C

One tap, and you’ll have all your word stats in seconds. 🔍

Google Docs Word Count on Ubuntu/Linux 🐧

For Ubuntu users accessing Google Docs via a browser, all features remain fully functional.

Using the Menu:

  • The same method applies:
    Tools → Word count

Keyboard Shortcut (Ubuntu):

Ctrl + Shift + C

Since Google Docs is cloud-based, it doesn’t matter what OS you use—you get the same experience. 🛠️

Track Word Count in Real-Time 📈

Want to keep your word count visible while writing?

Here’s how:

  1. Go to Tools → Word count
  2. Check the box that says Display word count while typing
  3. A small box will appear in the bottom left corner of your document showing a live word count

You can even click this box to toggle between word, character, and page counts!

Counting Words in a Selection Only 🔍

You can also count the number of words in a specific paragraph or sentence:

  • Highlight the text you want to count
  • Use the Tools → Word count option or the keyboard shortcut
  • The dialog will show stats only for the selected text

This is incredibly useful when you have to limit an abstract or summary to a specific word count.

Extra Tip: Use Word Count for SEO & Productivity

Google Docs’ word count tool is more than just a number tracker. Bloggers and writers can use it to:

  • Maintain optimal SEO content length
  • Break writing goals into manageable chunks
  • Stay within client or publication limits
  • Practice focused micro-writing (e.g., for product descriptions or ad copy)

Set personal writing targets, like 500 or 1,000 words per session, and watch your productivity soar. 🚀

FAQs about Word Count on Google Docs

Can I display word count live while writing?
Yes! Just enable Display word count while typing under the Tools menu.

Is word count available on mobile?
Yes. In the Google Docs mobile app, tap the three-dot menu (⋮) and select Word count.

Does Google Docs count words in headers/footers?
Google Docs does not support traditional headers/footers like Word. It counts visible body content only.

Can I count only part of the text?
Yes, highlight any section and use the Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + C shortcut or Tools menu.

Is there a way to count characters only?
Absolutely. The word count window also shows characters with and without spaces.

Can I use an add-on for advanced stats?
While Google Docs’ built-in word count is sufficient for most users, you can explore add-ons like WordCounter Max for advanced features.

Final Thoughts: Stay on Track with Google Docs Word Count ✅

Keeping an eye on your word count in Google Docs is simple and incredibly helpful. Whether you use the menu or a quick shortcut, you’ll always know where you stand. And with live count and selection-based stats, Google Docs proves itself as a powerful, user-friendly writing tool.

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/

Advertisment