How to Add Emojis in Google Docs

how to add emojis in google docs
by David Harris // January 15  

Are you wondering how to add emojis in Google Docs? You’re not alone! Many people want their documents to have more personality, whether for school projects, work presentations, or fun. Using emojis can help to express emotions or highlight important points in your text. Let’s dive into how you can add emojis to your Google Docs.

The Basics of Emojis

Small digital images or icons and emojis convey ideas or emotions, enhancing the engagement of your documents. Since Google Docs doesn’t have a built-in emoji keyboard like some other platforms, you’ll need to rely on some simple methods to include them in your work. Don’t worry; it’s easier than you think!

Method 1: Using the Emoji Keyboard on Windows and Mac

Windows Users

If you’re using Windows, the simplest way to add emojis is through the emoji keyboard. To activate it, follow these steps:

  1. Open Google Docs.
  2. Click where you want to insert an emoji.
  3. Press the Windows key + . (period) on your keyboard. This action will open the emoji keyboard.
  4. Browse or search for your desired emoji by typing in keywords or scrolling through the options.
  5. Click to insert the emoji you want.

For example, if you’re writing a report on a fun team-building activity, you might want to add a smiley face 😊 or a party popper 🎉 to emphasize the excitement.

Mac Users

If you’re using a Mac, it’s even easier:

  1. Open Google Docs and click where you want to add an emoji.
  2. Press Control + Command + Space. This action will open the emoji viewer.
  3. Search or navigate through the options to find your emoji.
  4. Double-click on the emoji you wish to use, which will be inserted into your document.

Imagine you are emailing your friends about your recent vacation; you might include a beach umbrella emoji 🌴 to signal relaxation.

Method 2: Copy and Paste from an Online Emoji Database

If you prefer not to use the keyboard shortcuts, you can easily copy and paste emojis from an online emoji database. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Visit a reputable emoji website, like Emojipedia or Get Emoji.
  2. Search for the emoji you want to use.
  3. Copy the emoji by highlighting it and pressing Ctrl + C (Windows) or Command + C (Mac).
  4. Return to your Google Docs and place your cursor where you want the emoji.
  5. Paste the emoji using Ctrl + V (Windows) or Command + V (Mac).

This method is especially useful when you want a specific emoji that may not be commonly used. For example, if you were discussing a new technology and wanted to use the robot emoji 🤖, you could easily find and paste it without hassle.

Use Case Example

While working on a blog post about motivational quotes, I scoured the internet for inspiring emojis to sprinkle throughout the text. A light bulb 💡 next to a great idea quote made it pop!

Method 3: Using Google Docs’ Built-in Special Characters Tool

Google Docs has a built-in feature for adding special characters, including emojis. While it’s more indirect than the previous methods, it can be handy if you’re already in the document.

  1. Open your Google Docs document.
  2. Go to the menu bar and click on Insert.
  3. From the dropdown, select Special characters.
  4. A window will pop up. You can scroll down to find emojis or search for them using the search bar.

It’s straightforward but requires a few more steps than the other methods. Still, if you’re already accustomed to using the special characters tool for other symbols, it also makes sense to use this method.

Pros and Cons of Adding Emojis in Google Docs

While adding emojis can be fun, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons.

Pros

  • Enhances Engagement: Emojis can make your text more visually appealing. They draw the reader’s attention and help convey emotions better than words alone.
  • Conveys Emotion: Sometimes, written text can seem flat. Emojis add a layer of meaning and excitement. For instance, instead of saying, “I’m excited about this project,” you could say, “I’m excited about this project! 🎉”
  • Facilitates Communication: Especially in team environments, emojis can help simplify complex ideas, making discussions more accessible and enjoyable.

Cons

  • Potential Misinterpretation: Not everyone uses emojis in the same way. For example, an emoji that seems light-hearted to one person may appear unprofessional to another.
  • Distractions: Overusing emojis might detract from the main content of your documents. Keeping it relevant is key.
  • Professionalism: In a business context, especially in formal documents, emojis may not always suit. It’s essential to consider your audience and the document’s purpose.

Best Practices for Using Emojis in Google Docs

  1. Know Your Audience: Always consider who will be reading your document. Emojis may be appreciated in a creative environment but frowned upon in more formal settings.
  2. According to a study by the Emoticon Institute, over 70% of young professionals are receptive to emojis in workplace communication, while only 30% of senior executives feel the same way. Knowing your audience can guide your decisions.
  3. Use Sparingly: Don’t overdo it! Use emojis to accentuate points rather than replace words. A single emoji can often say more than a handful in a sentence.
  4. Stay Relevant: Ensure the emojis you select match the tone and message of your document. For instance, don’t use a celebratory emoji during a serious briefing about losses.
  5. Test Readability: It’s always a good idea to have someone else read your document to see if the emojis help or hinder the message. They may provide insights you hadn’t considered!
  6. Format Wisely: Be mindful of where you place emojis in your text. Usually, they work best at the end of sentences or paragraphs rather than interrupting the flow of your writing.

Potential Pitfalls of Using Emojis in Google Docs

While adding emojis can be fun, there are a few pitfalls to avoid:

  • Compatibility Issues: When sharing your document with others who don’t have the same emoji library, they might not see the intended emoji. Always check how your document appears to others, especially in collaborative environments.
  • Professional Image: As mentioned earlier, ensure your use of emojis aligns with the professional image you want to portray, particularly in business communications. If in doubt, it’s better to keep it simple.
  • Overcooking the Message: Too many emojis can clutter the text, making it difficult for readers to focus on the content. Strive for balance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to How To Add Emojis In Google Docs

Q. How do I open Google Docs to add emojis?
A. You can open Google Docs by going to the Google Drive website or directly visiting docs.google.com and selecting a document to work on.

Q. What is the quickest way to add an emoji in Google Docs?
A. The quickest way is to use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Cmd + Space on a Mac or Ctrl + Windows Key +. (period) on a PC to open the emoji picker.

Q. Can I copy and paste emojis from other sources into Google Docs?
A. Yes. Copy emojis from websites or your phone and paste them directly into your Google Docs document.

Q. Are there specific emoji shortcuts I can use in Google Docs?
A. Google Docs doesn’t have built-in emoji shortcuts, but you can often find emoji codes online that can be entered directly.

Q. How can I access emojis using the Insert menu?
A. Click on the “Insert” menu at the top of Google Docs, then select “Special characters.” You can search for emojis and insert them from this menu.

Q. Can I use emojis on mobile devices while using Google Docs?
A. You can add emojis to the mobile app using your keyboard emoji option.

Q. What if I can’t find the emoji I want in Google Docs?
A. If the emoji is unavailable, you can search for it online, copy it, and then paste it into your document.

Q. Are there any limitations to using emojis in Google Docs?
A. While you can use most emojis, some may not display properly on all devices or appear differently depending on the operating system.

Q. Can I change the size of the emoji in Google Docs?
A. Yes, you can change the size of the emoji by selecting it and adjusting the font size like you would with regular text.

Q. How do I remove an emoji from Google Docs?
A. Click the emoji to select it, then press delete or backspace on the keyboard.

Conclusion

Adding emojis to Google Docs can transform plain text into something visually engaging and emotionally resonant. Whether using keyboard shortcuts, copying and pasting, or leveraging the special characters tool, there are multiple ways to make your documents pop.

Consider your audience, use emojis sparingly, and ensure they enhance rather than detract from your message. With these tips and tricks, you can communicate with flair and expressiveness in your Google Docs. Happy emoji-ing!

About the Author

David Harris is a content writer at Adazing with 20 years of experience navigating the ever-evolving worlds of publishing and technology. Equal parts editor, tech enthusiast, and caffeine connoisseur, he’s spent decades turning big ideas into polished prose. As a former Technical Writer for a cloud-based publishing software company and a Ghostwriter of over 60 books, David’s expertise spans technical precision and creative storytelling. At Adazing, he brings a knack for clarity and a love of the written word to every project—while still searching for the keyboard shortcut that refills his coffee.