Google Docs has been updated with the ability to display word counts on the lower-left corner of the document while you’re typing. Earlier users had to go to Tools and then click on Word count to learn the number of words, pages and characters in the document, and following the update users will be able to see word counts in Google Docs while they’re typing — just like you’re able to see it in other popular writing software like Microsoft Word.
GSuite users on rapid release domains will start to see these changes already while those on scheduled release domains will see these changes starting September 23, 2019.
How to see word counts in Google Docs while typing?
- Go to Tools
- Click on Word count (or press CTRL+SHIFT+C shortcut key)
- You’ll see a new Display word count option at the bottom with a box beside it. Tick the box to enable the feature.
You’ll now see the word count appear in the left corner of your Google Docs. To hide the word count box from the bottom left, click on the word count box and select Hide word count.
How to see the word count of a specific section of the document?
If you wish to see the word count and the number of characters (including without spaces) of a specific section of the text, highlight it with your cursor or keyboard and press CTRL+SHIFT+C, which will open the word count box and show you the details for the highlighted text.
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How to see the word counts in Google Docs on Android and iOS?
- Tap on the three-dot menu on an opened document.
- Tap on Word count, and you’ll be able to see the number of words, characters and characters excluding spaces.
Users won’t be able to see the word count if Google Docs file is opened in Microsoft Office Compatibility mode. Google Sheets and Google Slides don’t offer word count either.
Ps. Google Docs word count doesn’t include content in the headers, footers and footnotes.
