How to Make a Newsletter in Google Docs

how to make a newsletter in google docs
by David Harris // January 15  

Creating a newsletter offers a great way to connect with your audience, whether running a small business, managing a community group, or sharing updates with family and friends. If you’re wondering how to make a newsletter in Google Docs, you’re in the right place! Google Docs is a user-friendly tool that can help you create stunning newsletters that catch the eye and convey your message effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started, complete with tips, tricks, and my personal experiences.

Why Use Google Docs for Your Newsletter?

Google Docs offers several advantages for creating newsletters:

  1. Accessibility: Access Google Docs from any internet-connected device, allowing you to work on your newsletter anytime, anywhere.
  2. Collaboration: Need feedback from others? Google Docs lets several people work on one document simultaneously, simplifying newsletter collaboration.
  3. Free Templates: With various pre-made templates, Google Docs can help you save time and give your newsletters a professional look.
  4. Easy Sharing: Once your newsletter is ready, sharing it with your audience is as simple as sending a link or exporting it as a PDF.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Newsletter in Google Docs

Let’s dive into the process and break it down into easy-to-follow steps.

Step 1: Open Google Docs and Choose a Template

Visit Google Docs and sign in using your Google account. Then:

  1. Click on the Template Gallery at the top right corner of your screen.
  2. Look for the Newsletters section. If you don’t see any templates you like, you can also search for “newsletter” in the search bar.
  3. Click on a template to start editing!

For example, I once chose a template with a colorful header for a community newsletter I was creating. It set a cheerful tone right from the start!

Step 2: Customize Your Template

After selecting a template, it’s time to make it your own:

  1. Change the Title: Click on the title and edit it to reflect the theme of your newsletter. Make it catchy!
  2. Edit the Content: Replace the placeholder text with your information. Here, write about recent updates, upcoming events, or any other information relevant to your readers.
  3. Add Images: Visuals can enhance your newsletter. Click on Insert, then Image, and choose the source of your image (upload from your computer, drive, or the web). Remember, images can tell a story!

Step 3: Play with Formatting

Formatting is essential for making your newsletter visually appealing. Use the following tips:

  • Headlines: Use bold fonts and larger sizes for headings (e.g., 20 pt for titles, 16 pt for subheadings).
  • Colors and Fonts: Experiment with different font styles and colors that align with your theme to keep readers engaged.
  • Spacing: Ensure proper spacing between sections to make the newsletter readable. According to Google’s accessibility guidelines, clear spacing significantly improves the reading experience.

Step 4: Add Links to Sources

If you’re including external content, it’s helpful to provide links. Select the text to link, right-click, and choose “Insert link.” This action not only gives credit where it’s due but also enhances the credibility of your newsletter.

For example, when writing about the benefits of community involvement, I linked to studies that highlight its effect on mental health and social connection (“According to the American Psychological Association, community ties are critical for well-being”).

Step 5: Proofread and Edit

Before releasing your newsletter into the world, take the time to proofread it. Check for:

You might even consider having someone else read through it. A new perspective can spot errors that might have been missed.

Step 6: Export and Share Your Newsletter

Once your newsletter looks perfect, you’ll want to share it with your audience. You have two main options:

  1. Share via Link: Click on the “Share” button at the top right of the screen, adjust the settings to allow others to view, and copy the link to share.
  2. Download as PDF: Go to File, hover over Download, and select PDF Document. This format is ideal for distribution since it preserves your formatting.

Best Practices for Your Newsletter

Creating a successful newsletter isn’t just about layout; you must also consider content strategy. Here are some best practices:

Keep It Brief and Engaging

Readers tend to skim newsletters. Therefore, keep paragraphs short and information concise. Use bullet points or numbered lists whenever feasible to make content easy to consume.

Include Call-to-Action Buttons

Encourage readers to take action! Whether you want them to register for an event, check out a blog post, or follow your social media, include links and call-to-action buttons.

Consistency is Key

Decide on a frequency (monthly, quarterly) for your newsletters and stick to it. Consistency builds anticipation among your readers. I once started a monthly newsletter for a local book club, so attendance at our meetings doubled!

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, you might encounter challenges while creating newsletters. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Overloading with Information

Though you might feel tempted to include everything, packing too much information can overwhelm the reader. Focus on key takeaways and highlights.

Ignoring Visual Design

A visually bland newsletter can disengage readers. Spend time on design. Use colors, images, and white space effectively to grab attention.

Neglecting Audience Engagement

Always keep your audience in mind! What are they interested in? Ask for feedback in your newsletters, and try to include topics they care about most.

Lack of Accessibility

Your newsletter should be accessible. Use clear fonts and sufficient contrast so everyone, including those with vision impairments, can read it easily. The World Health Organization states that approximately 2.2 billion people worldwide experience vision impairment, underscoring major concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to How To Make A Newsletter In Google Docs

Q. What is the first step to creating a newsletter in Google Docs?
A. The first step is to open Google Docs and select a blank document or choose a newsletter template from the template gallery.

Q. How do I format the title of my newsletter?
A. To format the title, highlight the text and use the toolbar to change the font size, style, and color. You can also center the text using the alignment options.

Q. Can I add images to my newsletter?
A. Yes, you can add images by clicking on “Insert,” then selecting “Image,” and choosing where to upload your photo from (such as your computer or Google Drive).

Q. How can I create columns in my newsletter?
A. To create columns, go to “Format,” then “Columns,” and choose the number of columns you want to use.

Q. Is it possible to add hyperlinks in Google Docs?
A. Yes! To add a hyperlink, highlight the text you want to link, click “Insert,” and select “Link.” Then, paste the URL and click “Apply.”

Q. How do I change the background color of my newsletter?
A. To change the background color, click on “File,” then “Page setup,” and choose a color in the “Page color” section.

Q. What is the best way to check spelling and grammar in my newsletter?
A. Google Docs has a built-in spelling and grammar checker. It usually checks automatically, but you can click “Tools” and “Spelling and Grammar” to review suggestions.

Q. Can I share my newsletter with others for feedback?
A. Yes, click the “Share” button in the upper right corner to share your newsletter, then input the email addresses of your intended recipients.

Q. How can I print my newsletter once it’s finished?
A. To print your newsletter, go to “File,” then select “Print,” or simply press Ctrl + P (Cmd + P on Mac) to open the print dialog.

Q. How do I save my newsletter as a PDF?
A. To save your newsletter as a PDF, go to “File,” select “Download,” and then choose “PDF Document (.pdf)” from the menu.

Conclusion

Creating a newsletter in Google Docs is straightforward and allows for much creativity. You can produce an engaging newsletter that keeps your audience informed and connected by selecting a suitable template, customizing content, ensuring proper formatting, and adhering to best practices. Remember to proofread before sharing and seek feedback to improve future editions.

So, are you ready to start your newsletter journey? Dive into Google Docs, unleash your creativity, and begin connecting with your audience today!

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.