How to make a table in Google Docs
Learn 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.
Quick answer
To make a table in Google Docs, open the Insert menu, point to Table, and move across the size grid until it shows the columns and rows you want. Click that size to place the table in your document, then click any cell and type to fill it in.
Steps at a glance
- Open the Insert menu in the menu bar.
- Point to Table to open the size grid.
- Move across the grid to pick columns and rows.
- Click the size to insert the table.
- Click a cell and type to fill it in.
Interactive demo
Summary
Tables in Google Docs let you lay out text in rows and columns inside a normal document. You build one from the Insert menu by choosing a grid size, so it takes a few clicks and no setup.
Step-by-step guide
Step 1
Open the Insert menu
Click **Insert** in the menu bar above the page. Put your cursor where you want the table to go first, because the table is placed at the cursor.
Step 2
Point to Table
In the Insert menu, point to **Table**. A submenu opens beside it with a grid of small squares for choosing a size.
Step 3
Drag across the grid to pick a size
Move your pointer across the grid. The squares highlight and a label under the grid shows the size, such as "4 by 3", as you move. Stop when it shows the number of columns and rows you want.
Step 4
Click to insert the table
Click the highlighted size. The table appears in your document at the cursor, with your cursor in the first cell.
Step 5
Click a cell and type to fill it in
Click any cell in the table and type. Repeat for the other cells to add headings and details, such as a task, an owner, and a due date.
Why this matters
You are drafting a launch plan and need tasks, owners, and due dates lined up side by side instead of in loose paragraphs. A table gives each item its own cell, so the plan reads at a glance and is easy to update.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find the table option in Google Docs?
Open the Insert menu in the menu bar and point to Table. A grid opens for choosing how many columns and rows to insert.
Can I choose the size before the table is inserted?
Yes. As you move your pointer across the grid, the highlighted squares and the label under the grid show the size, and clicking inserts that size.
Related guides
Continue with more step-by-step guides for getting work done.
How to make two columns in Google DocsLearn how to split your Google Docs page into two columns from the Format menu, then adjust the spacing and add a line between them.
How to change margins in Google DocsLearn how to change page margins in Google Docs using the File menu or the ruler — set custom margins in inches or centimetres.
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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