Google Docs

How to Add "Th" in Google Docs

Spencer LanoueSpencer Lanoue
Google Docs

Google Docs is a fantastic tool for creating and editing documents online. Sometimes, you want to add a little flair to your text. For instance, adding a "th" to your ordinal numbers like 4th or 5th can make your document look a bit more polished and professional. If you're not sure how to do that in Google Docs, don't worry. I'm here to help! Let's walk through the steps to add "th" (or "st," "nd," and "rd") to your numbers in a way that's both quick and easy.

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Using Superscript for Ordinals

The simplest way to add "th" to a number in Google Docs is by using the superscript feature. Superscript makes your text appear smaller and slightly above the regular text line, which is perfect for ordinals. Here's how you can do it:

  • First, type the number you want to add "th" to, such as 4.
  • Next, type "th" immediately after the number.
  • Highlight the "th" with your mouse or trackpad.
  • Go to the Format menu at the top of the Google Docs window.
  • Select Text from the dropdown menu, and then choose Superscript.

And there you have it! Your "th" is now nicely formatted as a superscript. This method works well for any ordinal suffix, so feel free to use it for "st," "nd," and "rd" too.

Creating a Keyboard Shortcut

If you find yourself frequently adding superscript to your numbers, creating a custom keyboard shortcut can save you a ton of time. Here's a quick way to set one up:

  • Open Google Docs and click on Tools in the menu bar.
  • Select Preferences from the dropdown menu.
  • In the Preferences window, scroll down to the Automatic Substitution section.
  • Type the number and suffix (e.g., "4th"), and in the substitution box, enter the formatted version using the superscript feature.
  • Click OK to save your changes.

Now, whenever you type the number with the suffix, Google Docs will automatically substitute it with the superscript version. This nifty trick can make your document editing much smoother and faster.

Utilizing Google Docs Add-ons

Google Docs supports a variety of add-ons that can extend its functionality. If you're looking for a more automated way to handle superscripts, an add-on might be the way to go. Here's a quick guide on how to find and install one:

  • Go to the Add-ons menu and select Get add-ons.
  • In the Google Workspace Marketplace, search for Superscript or a similar term.
  • Browse through the available options and read the reviews to find an add-on that suits your needs.
  • Click on the add-on you want and select Install.
  • Follow the prompts to grant the necessary permissions.

Once installed, the add-on will guide you on how to use it. Most add-ons provide a simple interface to apply superscript formatting quickly and efficiently.

Using Spell for Faster Document Editing

While Google Docs is great for manual edits, sometimes you need a little extra help to speed things up. That's where Spell comes in. Spell is like having an AI-powered assistant built into your document editor. You can generate drafts in seconds and make edits using natural language prompts. It's a real time-saver, especially when you're working on documents that require frequent formatting adjustments.

With Spell, you can describe the changes you want, like "make 'th' a superscript," and it does the work for you. It's that simple! Plus, you can collaborate with others in real-time, just like in Google Docs, but with the added benefit of AI assistance.

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Formatting Ordinals with the Help of Google Docs Features

Google Docs has a variety of built-in features that can make your life easier when formatting ordinals. Let's explore a few more tricks:

Using the "Explore" Tool

The "Explore" tool can help you find resources quickly. While it's not directly related to adding "th," it's a handy tool for research and gathering information, which can be useful when working on detailed documents.

  • Click on the Explore icon (a small star) at the bottom right corner of your screen.
  • Type in your query, such as "ordinal numbers," and see the related articles and suggestions.
  • Use the findings to enrich your document with accurate information and sources.

While the "Explore" tool might not directly format your text, it can enhance your document's content quality.

Using Voice Typing

Feeling tired of typing? Give Google Docs' voice typing feature a try. Here's how you can activate and use it:

  • Go to Tools in the menu bar and select Voice typing.
  • A microphone icon will appear. Click it to start speaking.
  • Say your text, including the number and its suffix.

While voice typing won't automatically format "th" as a superscript, it's a great way to input text if you're multitasking or prefer speaking over typing. You can always go back and apply the superscript formatting manually.

Automating with Scripts

If you're comfortable with a bit of coding, Google Apps Script can be a powerful tool to automate formatting tasks. Here's a simple script to format numbers and their suffixes:

function formatOrdinals() {
 var doc = DocumentApp.getActiveDocument(),
 var body = doc.getBody(),
 var text = body.getText(),

 var ordinalRegex = /\b(\d+)(st|nd|rd|th)\b/g,
 var match,
 while ((match = ordinalRegex.exec(text)) !== null) {
 var startOffset = match.index + match[1].length,
 var endOffset = startOffset + match[2].length,
 var range = body.findText(match[0]),

 if (range) {
 var element = range.getElement(),
 var start = range.getStartOffset(),
 var end = range.getEndOffsetInclusive(),

 element.setFontSize(startOffset, endOffset - 1, 9), // Smaller font
 element.setBaselineOffset(startOffset, endOffset - 1, DocumentApp.BaselineOffset.SUPERSCRIPT),
 }
 }
}

To use this script, open your Google Doc, click on Extensions > Apps Script, and paste the script in the editor. Save and run the script to automatically format all the ordinals in your document.

Spell and Document Efficiency

One of the standout features of Spell is its ability to streamline document creation and editing. Imagine going from a blank page to a polished document in just a few minutes. Whether it's generating drafts, applying complex formatting, or collaborating with your team, Spell makes it all effortless.

Just highlight the text you want to change, and tell Spell what to do - like turning "th" into a superscript. It's like having a smart assistant that understands your needs and gets the job done quickly.

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Practical Tips for Consistent Formatting

Maintaining consistency in your document formatting can make a big difference in how your work is perceived. Here are some tips to keep your document looking sharp:

Create a Style Guide

Having a style guide for your document can help ensure that all formatting is consistent. Decide on the font size, style, and how you want ordinals to appear, and stick to it throughout the document.

Use Templates

Google Docs offers a variety of templates for different types of documents. By using a template, you can ensure consistent formatting from the start. Customize a template to include your preferred ordinal formatting, and reuse it for similar documents.

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Proofread and Review

Always take time to review your document before finalizing it. Look for inconsistencies in formatting and make necessary adjustments. This may seem like a small step, but it can significantly impact the professional appearance of your work.

Collaborating on Document Formatting

When working on a document with others, it's important to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding formatting. Google Docs makes collaboration easy with its sharing and commenting features.

  • Share the Document: Click the Share button to invite others to view or edit the document. Set permissions as needed.
  • Use Comments: Highlight text and use the comment feature to suggest changes or ask for feedback. This is a great way to discuss formatting choices, like whether to use superscript for ordinals.
  • Track Changes: Google Docs automatically tracks changes made by collaborators, so you can review edits and decide which to keep.

Collaborating effectively not only improves the quality of the document but also ensures that formatting remains consistent throughout the process.

Final Thoughts

Adding "th" to your numbers in Google Docs is a simple way to enhance the appearance of your document. Whether you're using superscript, keyboard shortcuts, or add-ons, there are plenty of ways to achieve the look you want. And if you're looking for a faster, more efficient way to handle document editing, consider giving Spell a try. It streamlines the process, making it easy to create high-quality documents in no time. Happy editing!

Spencer Lanoue

Spencer Lanoue

Spencer has been working in product and growth for the last 10 years. He's currently Head of Growth at Sugardoh. Before that he worked at Bump Boxes, Buffer, UserTesting, and a few other early-stage startups.