How to Insert Shapes in Google Docs: A Complete Guide

Google Docs is a versatile tool for creating documents, and while it’s primarily text-focused, you can enhance your documents by adding shapes.

Shapes are useful for creating diagrams, flowcharts, highlighting sections, or simply adding a creative touch to your work.

This guide explains how to insert and customize shapes in Google Docs step by step.

How to Insert Shapes in Google Docs

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Use the Drawing Tool

Google Docs provides a built-in Drawing tool that allows you to insert and edit shapes.

Open your Google Docs document.

Navigate to the menu bar and click on Insert.

Select Drawing > + New.

In the Drawing window:

Click on the Shape icon (a circle and square icon in the toolbar).

Hover over the Shapes, Arrows, Callouts, or Equation tabs to view available options.

Select the desired shape.

Click and drag within the canvas area to draw your shape.

Customize the shape:

Fill Color: Click the paint bucket icon to change the shape’s fill color.

Border Color: Click the pencil icon to adjust the border color and thickness.

Text: Double-click inside the shape to add text.

Once satisfied, click Save and close to insert the shape into your document.

2. Using Pre-Drawn Shapes from Google Drawings

For more complex designs or shapes, use Google Drawings as an external editor.

Open Google Drawings (drawings.google.com).

Create and customize your shapes using the tools provided.

Save your drawing as an image (PNG or JPG) by clicking File > Download.

Insert the image into Google Docs:

Go to Insert > Image > Choose your saved file.

Resize and position the image as needed.

3. Inserting Images of Shapes

Alternatively, you can use images of shapes from your computer or the web.

Go to Insert > Image.

Choose the source:

Upload from computer

Search the web

Google Drive

Select the shape image and click Insert.

Adjust the size and position of the shape using the handles.

Tips and Tricks for Working with Shapes

1. Layering Shapes

To place one shape on top of another, right-click on the shape and select Order. Choose Bring to front or Send to back as needed.

2. Grouping Shapes

If you’re using multiple shapes together (e.g., to create a diagram), group them to move and resize them as one unit.

Select all shapes by holding Shift and clicking on each shape.
Right-click and choose Group.

3. Resizing and Rotating

Use the blue handles around the shape to resize it proportionally.

Rotate the shape by clicking and dragging the circular handle at the top.

4. Adding Text to Shapes

Double-click on a shape in the Drawing tool to insert text.

Use the text toolbar to adjust the font, size, alignment, and color.

Common Use Cases for Shapes in Google Docs

Flowcharts: Combine arrows and rectangles to visualize processes.

Callouts: Use callout shapes to highlight important information.

Timelines: Create a series of connected shapes to represent events or milestones.

Design Elements: Add shapes like circles or rectangles for visual appeal in newsletters or presentations.

FAQs About Inserting Shapes in Google Docs

Q1: Can I insert shapes directly without using the Drawing tool?

No, Google Docs requires you to use the Drawing tool or insert shapes as images. The Drawing tool is integrated for seamless editing.

Q2: Can I edit shapes after inserting them into my document?

Yes, double-click on the shape in your document to reopen the Drawing tool and make edits.

Q3: How do I delete a shape?

Click on the shape in your document and press Delete or Backspace.

Conclusion

Adding shapes in Google Docs can significantly enhance the visual appeal and organization of your document. Whether you’re designing flowcharts, highlighting information, or just adding some flair, the Drawing tool and customization options make the process simple and effective.

Experiment with different shapes, colors, and styles to create visually engaging documents. With this guide, you’re all set to start using shapes like a pro in Google Docs!