How to Convert Google Docs to Word? Complete Guide

Want to edit a Google Docs file in Microsoft Word? You can easily do this by converting your Google documents into MS Word format (DOCX). Here, I will explain different ways to convert Google Docs to Word with simple steps. Along with this, I will provide solutions to fix formatting issues.

Many users want to change their Google Docs files to MS Word. The main reason is to share important reports or documents with other team members who use Microsoft Office. The process is simple, but some users may encounter problems like layout issues or bulk conversion. But I have several methods that can help you export documents smoothly.

Direct Option to Save Google Docs as Word Files

The best option to convert Google Docs to Microsoft Word is to download Google Docs as a Word-based file, DOCX. This makes your task easier as it moves the document along with its formatting.

1. Open Google Docs in your browser.
2. Choose the document you want to convert. Open it.
3. Click the File option at the top and then select Download button.
4. Choose Microsoft Word (.docx) from the options. Then save the file to your system.
5. You can now easily open the downloaded document in Microsoft Word.

Use Google Drive to Export Bulk Google Docs to MS Word

Other than the above option, you can also use Google Drive to convert your Google Docs to Word. This method is suitable for bulk migration.

1. Open Google Drive and search for the documents you want to export.
2. Select multiple files by pressing the Ctrl key while selecting the files.
3. Right-click the selected files, then choose the Download option.
4. It compresses your files into ZIP format. But after extracting them, you can get the docx format, which you can open in Microsoft Word.

Save Google Docs as Word Using the Mobile App

The above methods are for desktop users. Many users work with Google Docs on the mobile app and convert the Doc files for the Word mobile app. Follow the steps below.

1. Download the Google Docs app on mobile. Open it.
2. Sign in to the account and choose the document you want to export.
3. Open it and click on the (three-dot) menu option in the right corner.
4. Click the Share & export option and then Save as.
5. Select Word (.docx). After that, the app automatically converts and saves it in Google Drive.

Manually Copy Google Docs and Paste It into Word Application

For a quick conversion of Google Docs to Word, you can copy the content of the document and paste it into a Word file. Please note that this method can cause formatting issues where, after exporting the files, you have to fix fonts and other layout issues.

1. In your Google Docs, open the document.
2. Select all the content and copy it.
3. Now, open a new document in Microsoft Word.
4. Paste all the content in it. Adjust the formatting and save the doc.

Fix Formatting Issues After Conversion

In some cases, formatting issues will occur even if you use the direct option to convert Google Docs to Word. If you are facing this problem, follow the tips below.

• Some fonts in Google Docs are not supported by Microsoft Word. So, before converting the document, use common fonts.
• After the conversion, there can be line spacing or paragraph alignment issues. So, review the content after conversion and fix any issues.
• This is a common problem where the table that you have added to the document is misaligned or broken. Adjust the table manually after conversion.
• Google Docs and MS Word use different custom styles. So, avoid using Google-specific styles or use common styles when fully transferring the files.

With these simple points, you can avoid formatting issues. The manual methods that I have explained are great for converting your Google Docs to Microsoft Word. However, some users who export thousands of Doc files into Word don’t have enough time to review each document for formatting issues. For this reason, they search for an option that can easily convert bulk Google Doc files while preserving layout and formatting.

When Manual Methods Do Not Work

Users who need to export multiple Google Docs to MS Word while preserving the formatting. They can use the SysTools Google Drive to OneDrive Migration Tool. This dedicated software is designed to move bulk documents easily from Google to the Microsoft environment.

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Why Users Need to Convert Google Docs to Word Files?

Choosing a method is up to you, but you should also know when you have to convert the Doc files. So, I have some scenarios where you may need to export the files.

• To open and edit Google Docs, you need an active internet connection. But by saving them into a Word file, you can open or edit them offline.
• Microsoft Word is more widely used in professional, academic, and corporate environments. So, having your documents in Word makes it easier for people to see and edit them.
• When comparing Google Docs vs MS Word, Word provides you with advanced formatting features to help you create a professional document.
• Printing and sharing Microsoft Word documents is easier. Also, you can save them on your local drive.
• Migrating Google Docs to Office 365 gives you access to more collaboration tools.

Concluding Words

In this article, I have explained several ways to convert Google Docs to Word. Here, I have provided the direct method, the Google Drive option, the Mobile method, and the Copy and Paste option. All these are simple, but you may face formatting issues. So, I also offered you tips to resolve the layout issues. In addition, I also discussed an alternative tool and the scenarios where you may need to change from Google Docs to Word.