How to Copy Format in Google Docs

Written by Emilija Google Workplace / Docs

- 3 min read

The paint format tool is one of the most useful features Google Docs offers.

The option allows users to apply the same formatting to multiple document parts, saving them the time to navigate multiple options.

So, for example, if a user needs to copy the exact formatting of a text, cell, or object quickly, the paint format can let them do that with just one click.

So without any further ado, let’s learn how to copy format in Google Docs.

How to copy the formatting with the paint format toll

  1. Open the Google Docs app on your computer.
  2. Select the text you want to copy the format of.
  3. Click on the Paint roller. Your cursor icon will change, showing you the paint format mode.

paint format google docs

  1. Click on the text you want to format.

You can use the same format tool in Google Sheets, and Google Slides as well.

Also, if you prefer to copy formatting by using keyboard shortcuts, you can simply follow these steps:

  • Windows: Ctrl + c for Copy, Ctrl + x for Cut, and Ctrl + v for Paste.
  • Mac: ⌘ + c for Copy, ⌘ + x for Cut, and ⌘ + v for Paste.

Note: Double-click the Paint format to paste it in multiple places. Click the Paint format again when you're done.

How to copy formatting in Google Sheets

The same paint format tool is available in the other Google Workspace apps, such as Google Sheets. Remember that the formatting tool can not help you copy formulas in Google Sheets.

Here is how to use the tool.

  1. Open your Google Sheets document.
  2. Click and highlight a cell.
  3. Click on the formatting option and click on the sell to paste the format.

google sheets formatting option

If you want to apply the same format to more than one cell at once, click and highlight a cell, click on the formatting tool, and then click and drag the cursor over the cells you want to format.

How to copy formatting in Google Slides

  1. Open your Google Slides presentation.
  2. Click on an object and next click on the formatting icon in the toolbar.
  3. Click on the object you want to format.

google slides formatting options

Wrapping Up

Formatting makes different parts of your text, presentations, and analytics stand out. Different formattings have different meanings and help your readers understand your documents better.

You can apply the same formatting to multiple places y clicking on the paint format icon with Google Docs.

Also, if you find this article helpful, make sure to read: How to Remove All Links in Google Docs and How to Sort Things Alphabetically in Google Docs.