How to Save a Document in Google Docs as a PDF
Have you ever had to take a Google Doc and turn it into a PDF? Doesn’t matter whether you’re finalizing a resume, submitting a report, or just sharing some manner of official document. PDFs are usually the file format of choice. Why? Well, PDFs retain formatting across devices, which means your document always looks the same, no matter where it’s opened. And the best part? Google Docs makes it super easy to convert your files into that universally accepted format.
Okay, let’s start this guide by showing you just exactly how to convert a Google Doc to a PDF in only a few absolutely easy steps. To make things even more interesting, I am including some bonus tips for all of you folks wanting to take your document game to the next level. Let’s dive in.
Why Convert Google Docs to PDF?
I’d just like to leave you with the why before we dive in: When might you want to convert a Google Doc to a PDF? PDFs are:
Universally compatible: Works on virtually any device, without losing their format.
Secure and tamper-proof: Perfect for sending important documents like contracts or resumes, since the content can’t be easily altered.
Small filesized, so easier to email.
Therefore, if you want your document to look polished, professional and consistent then PDFs are the way to go.
How to Convert a Google Doc to PDF: Step-by-Step
Now you know the benefits of PDFs, let’s talk through how to actually convert your Google Docs file into one. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Log in to your Google account, go to Google Drive, locate the document which you want to convert, and open it using Google Docs.
Step 2: Click on ‘File’
You have now successfully opened your file. Above-left corner of your screen, you will see an option for a menu labeled “File.” Select the “File” menu option, and a drop-down menu should appear.
Step 3: Select ‘Download’
Open the pull-down menu for “Download”. A sub-menu will open which shows several different file formats you may download your document in.
Step 4: Choose ‘PDF Document (.pdf)’
From this menu, click on “PDF Document (.pdf)”. This will download a PDF of your Google Doc to your computer instantly.
Step 5: Save and Share
Once you download your PDF, go to your downloads folder, or where-ever your browser saves files, and you are all set! You can then distribute your document via email, upload it to a cloud service, or even print it.
Converting Google Docs to PDF on Mobile
So, you are moving about and would want to convert Google Doc to PDF using your mobile phone. Great! Here is how you can do that by the Google Docs mobile app:
Step 1: Open the Google Docs App
Download the Google Docs app on your cell phone and open it. Open up the document that you would want to convert and tap to open it.
Step 2: Tap the Three DotsUpper-right corner of the app has three vertical dots. Tap those dots will open the menu for you.
Step 3: Select ‘Share & Export’
Scroll down to the menu options and select “share & export”.
Step 4: Select ‘Save as PDF’
You will find “Save as PDF” in the next menu. Now, clicking on it will automatically generate a PDF version of your document, which can be saved to your phone or sent. Tips for a Smooth Conversion While converting from Google Doc to PDF is relatively smooth, here are some tips to ensure that the transition goes perfect: 1. Check Your Formatting
Preview your document before you convert. PDFs lock in your formatting, so make sure your fonts, headings, and spacing look just the way you want them.
- Using Page Breaks
If your document is long, use page breaks at strategic locations so it does not break awkwardly between pages within the PDF.
- Enable Accessibility Features
Even though it is often unnecessary for a wide audience, you can add alt texts for images and also use heading structures to make your document accessible to everyone, including screen reader users.
- Batching Conversions Using Chrome Extensions
If you frequently need to convert several Google Docs into PDF, try using some Chrome extension that enables you to convert Google Docs in bulk simultaneously. That saves you a huge amount of the time you would spend.
Common Problems and Their Solutions
conversion of Google Docs into PDF often does not go as planned. Here are common problems and some quick solutions to them
- Images Are Missing or Misaligned
Sometimes, images may fail to load on the PDF, and if that happens, try publishing the document again. Also, make sure all the pictures in your original Google Doc face the right way to prevent possible alignment problems.
- Fonts Are Different
At times, you may realize that your fonts in your Google Doc display differently in PDF. This usually happens when the font that you used is unsupported. You should always use common and basic fonts such as Arial or Times New Roman.
- File Too Large
In certain instances, the size of the PDF files becomes larger than the size you had anticipated. You can compress the file while retaining the quality by using online tools such as Smallpdf or Adobe Acrobat.
Conclusion: From Google Docs to PDF: Mastering the Art
And there you have it! Converting a Google Doc to PDF is as easy as a couple of clicks, but knowing the little tips and tricks really can make the process that much smoother. Whether working from desktop or mobile, Google Docs offers a convenient way to transform files into polished PDFs ready for the world outside your computer screen.
So next time you are closing an important document, you will know just how to make it look perfect when it is opened anywhere, however they open it!
And trust me, after you start using PDFs regularly, you will wonder how you lived without them all this time!
FAQ
Do I really have to lose the formatting when I convert my Google Docs to PDF?
But yes, Google Docs does retain formatting when you translate into a PDF. With all due respect, though, do preview your document before sending it to PDF for conversion, just in case something looks different from the original.
Once you have a Google Doc that converts to PDF, then it’s no longer a document that you will be able to edit since you would need to go back to the original Google Doc if you want to make some changes; when you want to print it in PDF again, you will need to repeat the same process.
How can I download multiple Google Docs as PDF?
This conversion is enabled by the chrome extension or third-party tools including PDF Mergy downloaded multiple Google Docs as PDFs.
Does Google Docs save as PDF automatically?
Google Docs does not automatically save as a PDF document, but you can always download it into the PDF version and have automation tools, like Zapier, to automate repetitive actions. 5. Are there restrictions while saving to a PDF?
Most of the times, your Google Docs will convert to PDF without glitches, but in some specific cases such as uncustomized fonts or complex formatting, there is a chance for some minor glitches in the final output in terms of PDF.
