Insert Shape in Google Docs: A Guide to Enhance Your Documents

insert shape in google docs
by David Harris // January 15  

Have you ever wondered how to insert shapes in Google Docs? This simple feature can enhance your documents by adding visual appeal or organizing your information better. Whether you’re working on a school project, a business report, or a personal document, mastering the insert shape function can make your work stand out. This article shares experiences using shapes in Google Docs provides examples and highlights best practices.

What is Insert Shape in Google Docs?

Inserting shapes in Google Docs allows you to add visual elements like circles, rectangles, arrows, and lines to your documents. This feature can help illustrate points, create diagrams, or make your document more engaging. By using shapes, you can break up large chunks of text and provide visual relief, making it easier for readers to digest information.

Why Use Shapes?

Using shapes can significantly enhance the presentation of your document. For instance, during a school presentation on renewable energy, I used arrows to point out energy flow from the sun to solar panels. It made my presentation clearer and more professional. Additionally, according to Google’s support documentation, visual elements help to capture attention and improve understanding of complex topics.

How to Insert Shapes in Google Docs

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Open Google Docs: Start by opening your Google Docs document.
  2. Access the Drawing Tool: Click on “Insert” in the top menu, then select “Drawing,” and finally, “+ New”. This action opens the drawing canvas.
  3. Choose a Shape: On the drawing canvas, click the “Shape” icon, which appears as a circle overlapping a square. A dropdown menu will appear with different categories of shapes: Shapes, Arrows, Callouts, and Equation.
  4. Select Your Shape: Choose the shape you want by clicking on it, then click and drag on the canvas to draw it.
  5. Customize Your Shape: You can adjust the size, color, and outline. Click on the shape to create a menu to customize its appearance.
  6. Save and Close: Once satisfied with your drawing, click “Save and Close.” The shape appears in your document.

Following these steps, you can insert simple, complex shapes that meet your needs.

Pros and Cons of Using Shapes

Using shapes has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s look at both sides.

Pros

  1. Visual Impact: Adding shapes can make your document more visually appealing. They can attract the reader’s eye and help highlight essential information.
  2. Organization: Shapes can help organize your content better. For example, using a rectangular box to highlight a quote or important information makes it stand out.
  3. Creativity: Shapes allow for creativity in your documents. You can create infographics or diagrams that convey information visually.

Cons

  1. Overuse Can Distract: While shapes can be beneficial, overusing them can distract readers. Too many shapes can take away from the message you are trying to convey.
  2. Print Limitations: If you plan to print your document, some colors and shapes may not appear as vividly on paper as on screen.
  3. Learning Curve: Some users, particularly those less familiar with technology, may find the drawing tool initially challenging.

Best Practices for Using Shapes

Using shapes effectively requires a thoughtful approach. Here are some best practices you can follow:

Keep It Simple

I went a little overboard when I started using shapes in my documents. I used many colors and complex shapes, which cluttered my pages. After some feedback, I learned that simpler shapes and fewer colors often have more significant impacts. Stick to simple shapes that enhance your message without overwhelming your audience.

Be Consistent

Using a consistent style across your document can improve its professionalism. For example, if blue is your primary color for shapes, maintain its use throughout the document. Consistency can make your documents look polished and well thought out.

Use Shapes to Supplement Text

Shapes should complement your text, not replace it. Make sure any shapes you use to support the information you’re trying to convey. For example, when I used shapes for my project on urban development, I paired them with concise bullet points to ensure clarity.

Test Printing

Before finalizing your document, it’s essential to do a test print. What looks great on-screen might not look the same on paper. Adjust colors and shapes accordingly to ensure they appear as intended.

Potential Pitfalls

While using shapes can enhance your document, there are some pitfalls to avoid:

Lack of Accessibility

Some readers may have difficulty seeing shapes or colors. Consider using more straightforward designs and contrasting colors if your audience includes individuals with visual impairments. You want everyone to be able to understand your document fully.

Compatibility Issues

Remember that Google Docs sometimes have compatibility issues when transferring documents to other formats. For example, shapes may not transfer correctly if a colleague uses Microsoft Word. Always double-check your formatting when sharing documents across platforms.

Distraction Instead of Enhancement

Be aware that shapes can sometimes become distractions rather than enhancements. Evaluate whether a shape adds value or detracts from your message. If it doesn’t serve a purpose, it’s better to leave it out.

Real-World Application

Using shapes can refine academic or professional documents and personal ones. For example, I recently helped my sister create a birthday invitation using shapes in Google Docs. We inserted balloons and stars that paired perfectly with her chosen festive colors. As a result, the invitations were lively and attracted attention, which ensured everyone marked their calendars.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Insert Shape In Google Docs

Q. How do I insert a shape in Google Docs?
A. To insert a shape, go to the “Insert” menu, select “Drawing,” and then click “+ New.” Click the shape icon to choose and add your desired shape here.

Q. Can I change the color of the shape I insert?
A. Yes! After inserting a shape, click on it to see formatting options. Look for the fill color icon to change the shape’s color.

Q. Is it possible to add text inside the shape?
A. Absolutely! After you add a shape in the drawing tool, double-click the shape to type your text inside it. Adjust the text size and style, too.

Q. How do I resize a shape once it’s in my document?
A. Click on the shape to select it. Small squares (handles) will appear around the shape. To resize the shape, click and drag the handles.

Q. Can I move the shape after it’s been inserted?
A. Yes! Click on the shape to select it, then drag it to your desired location in the document.

Q. Are there different types of shapes I can insert?
A. Yes, Google Docs provides a range of shapes, such as circles, rectangles, arrows, and more. You can find them in the drawing tool under the shapes menu.

Q. Can I apply a border to a shape?
A. Yes! After selecting your shape, you can find the border color and stroke width options in the drawing toolbar to customize the border.

Q. What happens if I want to edit the shape later?
A. Click on the shape, then select “Edit” from the available toolbar. This action will take you back to the drawing tool, where you can make changes.

Q. How do I delete a shape from my document?
A. To delete a shape, click on it to select it and then press your keyboard’s “Delete” key.

Q. Can I add multiple shapes in one drawing?
A. Yes! While in the drawing tool, you can insert as many shapes as you want. Just click on the shape icon each time to add a new shape.

Conclusion

Inserting shapes in Google Docs is an easy yet powerful tool for elevating your documents. With this article, you can create visually appealing, organized, and engaging content. Remember to keep things simple, consistent, and supportive of your text. As you practice using shapes, you’ll find new ways to incorporate them into your work, adding value to your documents and making them more effective.

With shapes, your Google Docs can go from plain to professional in no time. So why not give it a try? Start enhancing your documents today with the insert shape feature.

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.