How To Make Google Docs Look Like A Book

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Google Docs is a versatile platform that lets you create a variety of documents. But did you know that you can also convert these documents to look like a book? In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to transform your Google Docs into a publish-worthy manuscript.

Step 1: Adjusting the Page Size

The first step in transforming your Google Doc into a book is adjusting the page size. The standard book size is 6″ x 9″, though you can also use other sizes like 5.5″ x 8.5″ for smaller books or 8.5″ x 11″ for larger ones. To adjust the page size, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the “File” menu.
  2. Select “Page Setup”.
  3. Under “Paper Size”, select “Custom”.
  4. Enter your desired width and height in inches.
  5. Click “OK”.

Step 2: Setting the Margins

The next step is to set the margins. Margins are essential for providing a comfortable reading experience. They also offer a space for the reader to hold the book without covering the text. Here’s how to set the margins:

  1. Go to the “File” menu.
  2. Select “Page Setup”.
  3. Under “Margins”, adjust the top, bottom, left, and right margins. A common setting for book printing is 1″ for the top and bottom margins and 0.75″ for the inside and outside margins.
  4. Click “OK”.

Step 3: Choosing the Right Font and Font Size

Books typically have a specific typeface and font size. A popular choice for body text in books is a serif font like Times New Roman, size 12. You can change the font and font size in Google Docs by highlighting the text, clicking on the font menu at the top, and selecting your preferred font and size.

Step 4: Inserting Page Numbers

Page numbers are an essential feature of any book. To add page numbers in Google Docs, follow these steps:

  1. Click on “Insert” in the top menu.
  2. Hover over “Header & Page Number”.
  3. Click on “Page Number”.
  4. Choose the positioning of the page number.

Step 5: Adding Headers and Footers

To add that professional touch to your book, you might want to add headers and footers. Headers often contain the book title or chapter title, while footers typically contain the author’s name or page numbers.

To add a header or footer:

  1. Click on “Insert” in the top menu.
  2. Hover over “Header & Page Number”.
  3. Click on “Header” or “Footer”.
  4. Type your text.

By using these easy steps, you can tailor your Google Docs document to look like a book. Whether you’re drafting a novel, creating a family history book, or putting together a thesis, Google Docs offers the tools to make your work look professionally designed.