How to add a checklist in Google Docs
Turn a list of tasks into a Google Docs checklist with the Format menu, then click each checkbox to tick items off as you finish them.
Quick answer
To add a checklist in Google Docs, select the lines you want to turn into tasks, open the Format menu, point to Bullets & numbering, and choose Checklist menu. Pick a style, and each line gets a checkbox. Click a checkbox to tick the item off and strike it through.
Steps at a glance
- Type your tasks, one per line, and select them
- Open the Format menu
- Point to Bullets & numbering
- Pick a style from Checklist menu
- Click a checkbox to tick an item off
Interactive demo
Summary
A Google Docs checklist puts a clickable checkbox in front of each line. You can track tasks inside the same document where you plan them, and tick them off as you go.
Step-by-step guide
Step 1
Select your to-do lines
Type each task on its own line in a new document, then select all of them. Everything you select becomes part of the checklist, so make sure every task is included.
Step 2
Open the Format menu
Click **Format** in the menu bar above the page. A long menu of text and paragraph options opens.
Step 3
Point to Bullets & numbering
Move down to **Bullets & numbering**. A submenu opens with **Numbered list menu**, **Bulleted list menu**, and **Checklist menu**.
Step 4
Choose a checklist style
Point to **Checklist menu** and pick a style. **Strikethrough text when checked** crosses out finished items, while **Do not strikethrough text when checked** leaves them as they are. Each selected line now starts with an empty checkbox.
Step 5
Tick an item off
Click the checkbox next to a task. The box fills with a tick and, with the strikethrough style, the text is crossed out.
Why this matters
You are planning a launch in a doc and want to track what is done without moving to another app. A checklist keeps every task next to your notes, and ticking one off shows progress at a glance.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose whether finished items are crossed out?
Yes. The Checklist menu offers two styles: one with strikethrough text when checked, and one without.
Do I need a paid account to add a checklist?
No. The checklist options appeared in the Format menu on a free account.
Related guides
Continue with more step-by-step guides for getting work done.
How to strikethrough in Google DocsLearn how to add strikethrough text in Google Docs using the Format menu or keyboard shortcut, and how to remove it afterwards.
How to make a table in Google DocsLearn how to make a table in Google Docs: open the Insert menu, pick a size on the grid, place the table, and type into its cells in five steps.
How to add a textbox to Google DocsLearn how to insert a text box in Google Docs using the Drawing tool and position it independently of the document flow.
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