How to change text color in Google Docs is one of the most common formatting questions people have when working on documents. By default, Google Docs starts with plain black text. If you import a Microsoft Word file or copy and paste from another source, the original font color usually carries over.
The good news? You’re not stuck with plain black text. Google Docs gives you flexibility to:
- Change text color for specific words, sentences, or the entire document.
- Apply highlight colors for emphasis and notes.
- Set a default font color permanently so new documents open with your preferred color.
- Reset everything back to the original black anytime.
Quick Reference: Change Text Color in Google Docs
| Action | Steps |
|---|---|
| Change text color (desktop) | Select text → Click Text color (A) → Pick a color |
| Change text color (mobile) | Tap A icon → Text color → Choose shade |
| Change all text color | Press Ctrl + A / Cmd + A → Apply new color |
| Set default color | Change text → Right-click → Update “Normal text” → Format → Paragraph styles → Save as default |
| Reset to black | Format → Paragraph styles → Options → Reset styles |
| Shortcut trick | Alt + / (Win) or Option + / (Mac) → Type “Text color” |
This complete guide will show you how to change text color in Google Docs on desktop, how to set a permanent default color, how to reset it, and even some shortcuts and pro tips.
How to Change Text Color in Google Docs (Desktop)
On desktop, changing text color is simple. Here’s the step-by-step method:
- Open your Google Docs.
Head to Google Docs and open the document you want to edit. - Highlight the text.
Select the word, sentence, or paragraph you want to recolor. - Click the Text Color button.
On the toolbar at the top, look for the “A” with a color bar underneath. This is the text color tool. - Choose your color.
- A small palette will appear.
- Pick from standard colors or click “Custom” to create your own shade.
- Apply the color.
Your highlighted text will instantly change to the selected color.
How to Set a Default Text Color in Google Docs
If you’re tired of switching colors every time, you can set a permanent default font color in Google Docs. This means every new document will start with your chosen color instead of black.
Here’s how:
- Open a Google Doc and type some sample text.
- Select the text and change its color using the Text Color tool (e.g., red).
- Right-click the text and select Update ‘Normal text’ to match.
- In the top menu, go to:
- Format > Paragraph styles > Options > Save as my default styles
Now your chosen color is “locked in.” Every new Google Doc will start with this font color automatically.
How to Lock or Keep Text Color Permanent
A common question is: “Can I lock the text color in Google Docs?” While there’s no literal “lock” button, the default style method above works the same way. Once saved, your color stays permanent across all new Docs—no need to reset it each time.
How to Reset Text Color in Google Docs
If you want to undo changes and go back to the original black font:
- Go to: Format > Paragraph styles > Options > Reset styles
- All formatting (including text color) reverts to the original default.
How to Highlight Text in Google Docs
Don’t confuse text color with highlight color.
- Text color = changes the letters themselves.
- Highlight color = adds a background color behind text.
To highlight text:
- Select the words you want to highlight.
- On the toolbar, click the Highlight color tool (next to the text color “A”).
- Choose a highlight shade (yellow, green, pink, etc.).
Shortcut to Change Text Color in Google Docs
Currently, Google Docs does not have a single dedicated keyboard shortcut for text color. But you can save time using these tricks:
- Alt + / (Windows) or Option + / (Mac): Opens the menu search bar. Type “Text color” and apply instantly.
- Ctrl + Alt + V (Windows) or Cmd + Option + V (Mac): Paste formatting, which includes text color.
For most users, the toolbar button remains the fastest way, but these shortcuts can help when you want to stay keyboard-focused.
How do I change the color of text in Google Docs?
Select the text you want to edit, click the Text color tool (the “A” with a color bar) in the toolbar, and choose a new color from the palette.
How to choose a font color in Google Docs?
Click the Text color tool, then either pick from the standard palette or use the Custom option to enter a hex code for an exact shade.
How do I change the color of a heading in Google Docs?
Highlight your heading, use the Text color tool, and select a new color. If you want this style for all future headings, update the heading style and save it as default.
Can I make gradient text in Google Docs?
Not directly. A workaround is to create gradient text in Google Slides (using WordArt), then copy and paste it into your Google Doc.
How do I clear custom colors in Google Docs?
Use Reset styles under paragraph options, or manually switch the text back to black.
Final Thoughts
Changing and customizing text color in Google Docs is simple once you know the steps. Whether you want to highlight a sentence, set a brand-color default, or lock in a permanent font style, Docs gives you the flexibility to personalize your work.
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