Google Docs

How to Caps Lock All Letters in Google Docs

Spencer LanoueSpencer Lanoue
Google Docs

Changing text to all caps in Google Docs might seem like a small task, but it can be surprisingly handy. Whether you're drafting a headline, emphasizing a point, or just want to make something stand out, knowing how to easily switch to all caps can save you time and effort. This article will break down the process. Making it as simple as a few clicks.

Using the Format Menu

Let's start with the most straightforward method. Using the Format menu. Google Docs has a built-in function to transform text into uppercase, and it's just a few clicks away. Here's how you can do it:

  1. Select the text: Highlight the portion of your document that you want to change to all caps. If you want the entire document in uppercase, use Ctrl + A (or Cmd + A on Mac) to select everything.
  2. Open the Format menu: At the top of the window, click on Format.
  3. Choose Text: In the dropdown menu, hover over Text, and another menu will appear.
  4. Click on Capitalization: From the new menu, choose Capitalization, and you'll see options for lowercase, UPPERCASE, and Title Case.
  5. Select UPPERCASE: Click on UPPERCASE to transform your selected text to all caps.

That wasn't too bad, right? Now, if only everything in life were that simple. But hold on. There are more ways to achieve this, in case this method doesn't quite fit your workflow.

Google Docs Add-ons

For those who love to extend their software capabilities, Google Docs offers a variety of add-ons that can make text transformation even easier. One popular add-on for this task is Change Case. Here's how you can use it:

  1. Install the Add-on: Go to the Add-ons menu at the top of Google Docs, click on Get add-ons, and search for Change Case. Once you find it, click Install.
  2. Use the Add-on: After installation, you can find Change Case under the Add-ons menu. Select the text you want to change, then click on Add-ons > Change Case > Upper Case.

This method is great if you frequently switch between different cases and want a quick way to do so. Plus, it's always nice to have a few extra tools in your toolbox, right?

Keyboard Shortcuts

If you're a fan of keyboard shortcuts, you might be wondering why there isn't a default shortcut for changing text to all caps in Google Docs. Unfortunately, as of now, Google Docs doesn't provide a built-in shortcut for this. However, there's a workaround using Google's scripting feature.

Creating a Custom Shortcut

To create a custom shortcut, you'll need to use Google Apps Script. Don't worry if this sounds intimidating. It's easier than you think.

  1. Open Script Editor: Go to Extensions > Apps Script in the Google Docs menu.
  2. Paste the Code: In the script editor, delete any existing code and paste the following:
function toUpperCase() {
var body = DocumentApp.getActiveDocument().getBody(),
var text = body.getText(),
body.setText(text.toUpperCase()),
}
  1. Save the Script: Click the disk icon to save your script, and give it a name like UpperCaseScript.
  2. Run the Script: Go back to your document, and you can run the script by going to Extensions > Macros > UpperCaseScript.

While this isn't a shortcut in the traditional sense, it's a quick way to apply all caps to your entire document. You might want to keep this little script handy if you find yourself needing it often.

Copying Text from Google Docs to Spell

If you're not keen on messing around with scripts or add-ons, there's another option. Using Spell. With Spell, you can draft and edit documents quickly, and it has built-in features for text transformation. Here's how you can use it:

  1. Copy Text: Select the text you want to change in Google Docs and copy it.
  2. Paste into Spell: Open Spell and paste your text into a new document.
  3. Use Spell's AI: Use Spell's AI to transform your text to all caps. Simply highlight the text and use the built-in commands to change the case.

Spell makes it easy to handle document editing tasks, freeing you up to focus on the content rather than formatting. Plus, it's always nice to have an AI looking over your shoulder, ready to help out when needed.

Manual Typing

Alright, this might sound a bit old-school, but if you're in a pinch, you can always manually retype your text in all caps. Sometimes, when all else fails, a little elbow grease is the way to go. Just remember to turn on caps lock on your keyboard, and you're good to go.

Of course, this method is best left as a last resort, especially for longer documents. But hey, it's always nice to know you have options, right?

Using Google Docs Mobile App

Let's not forget about those times when you're on the go and need to make changes from your phone. The Google Docs mobile app doesn't have a direct way to change text to all caps, but there's a workaround:

  1. Select Text: Tap and hold to select the text you want to change.
  2. Copy and Paste: Copy the text, open a note-taking app, and paste it there. Change the case using your phone's keyboard (some keyboards have case change options).
  3. Paste Back: Copy the modified text and paste it back into your Google Doc.

While not ideal, this method can work in a pinch. It's especially useful if you're away from your computer but still need to make quick edits.

Third-Party Tools

There are several third-party tools and websites that offer text case conversion. These can be useful if you're dealing with large chunks of text and need a quick solution. Some popular options include:

  • Convert Case: A simple online tool where you paste your text, choose the case, and copy the result back.
  • Case Converter: Similar to Convert Case, with options for different capitalization styles.

These tools are straightforward and don't require any installation, making them a convenient option when you're in a hurry.

Keyboard Remapping

If you find yourself changing text cases frequently, you might consider remapping your keyboard to include a shortcut for all caps. This involves using software to change the function of certain keys or key combinations. Here's a basic idea of how you might do this:

  1. Choose a Remapping Tool: Software like AutoHotkey for Windows or Karabiner Elements for Mac can help you remap keys.
  2. Create a Macro: Set up a macro that changes the selected text to all caps when you press a specific key combination.

While this approach requires a bit of setup, it can be a real time-saver if you regularly work with text that needs capitalization changes.

Final Thoughts

Converting text to all caps in Google Docs doesn't have to be a chore. Whether you use built-in features, add-ons, or even Spell, there's a method that fits your workflow. Spell, in particular, offers a seamless way to handle text transformations with the added benefit of AI-powered editing. Choose the method that works best for you, and 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.