Changing your default font on Google Docs can save you a lot of time if you frequently use a particular style. By setting a default font, every new document you create will start with your preferred font instead of the standard one. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it.
How to Change Your Default Font on Google Docs
In the following steps, you’ll learn how to change the default font on Google Docs so you don’t have to manually adjust it every time you start a new document.
Step 1: Open a New or Existing Document
Open Google Docs and either create a new document or open an existing one where you’ll change the font settings.
Starting with a document ensures you have something to apply the changes to. You can access Google Docs via your web browser; make sure you are logged into your Google account.
Step 2: Highlight Sample Text
Highlight a portion of text in your document.
This highlighted text will be used to set your desired font and style. If the document is blank, you can type a few words to highlight.
Step 3: Change Font Type and Size
Go to the font menu and select your preferred font type and size.
You will find the font menu on the toolbar at the top of the page. Click on it to see a dropdown list of available fonts and sizes. Choose the ones you prefer.
Step 4: Set Other Formatting Preferences
Adjust other formatting options like bold, italics, or color if desired.
These additional formatting choices will also become part of your default style. You can use the toolbar options to make these changes.
Step 5: Update "Normal Text" Style
Click on the "Format" menu, go to "Paragraph styles," hover over "Normal text," and select "Update ‘Normal text’ to match."
This step ensures that the changes you’ve made will be applied to the default text style in your document.
Step 6: Save as Default
Finally, go back to the "Format" menu, select "Paragraph styles," go down to "Options," and choose "Save as my default styles."
This action will save all the font and formatting changes as the default for all new Google Docs you create.
After completing these steps, every new document you create on Google Docs will automatically start with your chosen font and formatting settings.
Tips for Changing Your Default Font on Google Docs
- Consider readability: Choose a font that’s easy on the eyes for long documents.
- Consistency: Use the same default font for all your documents to maintain a uniform look.
- Professionalism: Select a font that looks professional for business documents.
- Experiment: Test different fonts and sizes to find what works best for you.
- Backup: Save your preferred settings, so you can quickly reapply them if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the default font for specific templates?
Yes, you can save different default styles in various templates by following the same steps within each template.
Will changing the default font affect existing documents?
No, changing the default font only affects new documents you create after making the change. Existing documents will remain unchanged.
Can I reset the default font back to the original settings?
Yes, you can reset to the original settings by selecting "Reset styles" under the "Format" menu’s "Options."
Do these steps work on the Google Docs mobile app?
No, these steps need to be completed on the web version of Google Docs. The mobile app does not support setting a default font.
Is it possible to use custom fonts in Google Docs?
Yes, you can access additional fonts by clicking on "More fonts" in the font menu dropdown.
Summary
- Open a New or Existing Document
- Highlight Sample Text
- Change Font Type and Size
- Set Other Formatting Preferences
- Update "Normal Text" Style
- Save as Default
Conclusion
Now that you know how to change your default font on Google Docs, you can save time and ensure all your documents have a consistent look right from the start. This simple customization helps streamline your workflow, especially if you frequently create documents for work or school. Remember to experiment with different fonts and styles until you find the perfect setup for your needs.
If you’re interested in diving deeper into Google Docs features, check out our other articles on advanced formatting, template creation, and collaboration tools. Happy writing!
Matt has been working with WordPress and creating content using this powerful content management system for years. While he has written about many other tech topics, WordPress is one of his favorites.
You can read his full bio here.