4/9/2025

how to create tables in google docs

IN SUMMARY

Creating tables in Google Docs is a straightforward process. You can insert a table from the toolbar, customize its dimensions, and format it according to your needs. Tables are useful for organizing data, creating layouts, and presenting information in a structured manner.

Inserting a Table

Click on the 'Insert' tab in the toolbar, then select 'Table'. A grid will appear, allowing you to drag and select the desired number of rows and columns for your table.

Alternatively, you can go to the 'Insert' menu and choose 'Table'. A dialog box will open, where you can specify the number of rows and columns you want in your table.

You can also use the keyboard shortcut 'Ctrl + Alt + T' (Windows/Chrome OS) or 'Cmd + Option + T' (Mac) to quickly insert a table with the default dimensions (5 rows x 5 columns).

Customizing Table Dimensions

To resize rows or columns, hover your cursor over the row or column border until it turns into a double-headed arrow. Then, click and drag to adjust the height or width accordingly.

Right-click on a row or column and select 'Insert row above', 'Insert row below', 'Insert column left', or 'Insert column right' to add new rows or columns. Similarly, you can delete existing rows or columns from the same context menu.

To merge multiple cells into one, select the cells you want to merge and click the 'Merge cells' icon in the toolbar. To split a merged cell, right-click on the cell and choose 'Unmerge'.

Formatting Tables

You can format individual cells or the entire table by adjusting the text style, font, size, color, alignment, and background color using the toolbar options or the 'Format' menu.

Click on the 'Table' menu to access options for adding or removing table borders, adjusting border styles and colors, and applying pre-defined table styles.

Right-click on the table and select 'Table properties' to access advanced settings, such as specifying the table caption, row/column header rows, and cell padding and spacing.

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