How to Make Google Docs Dark Mode

Sometimes the bright white background of Google Docs can feel like staring into a flashlight. If you're like many of us who prefer a darker screen to ease the strain on your eyes, you'll be interested in setting Google Docs to dark mode. This feature is especially handy for those late-night work sessions or when you're just looking to give your eyes a break. We'll walk through how to activate dark mode in Google Docs, and explore a few tips to make your document experience even better.

Why Dark Mode?

Before getting to the "how." Let's chat about the "why." Dark mode is more than just an aesthetic choice. It can be a game-changer for your comfort and productivity. By reducing the harshness of bright screens, dark mode can decrease eye strain, especially in low-light environments. Not to mention, it can also save battery life on devices with OLED screens. So, whether you're a night owl or someone who spends a lot of time in front of the screen, dark mode might be just what you need.

Enabling Dark Mode in Google Docs on Mobile

Let's kick things off with the mobile app since many of us are on our phones more often than we'd like to admit. Here's how to enable dark mode on the Google Docs mobile app:

• Open Google Docs: First, open the Google Docs app on your smartphone. If you haven't already installed it, you can grab it from the App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android.
• Access Settings: Tap on the three horizontal lines (or the hamburger menu, as some like to call it) located at the top-left corner of the screen.
• Choose Settings: Scroll down and tap on "Settings."
• Select Theme: You'll see an option for "Theme" or "Choose Theme." Tap on it.
• Switch to Dark Mode: Finally, select "Dark" from the options. Your Google Docs should now be in dark mode.

And just like that, you've switched to a darker, more eye-friendly interface on your mobile device. Remember, this change affects all Google Docs you open on your phone, not just a single document.

Activating Dark Mode in Google Docs on Desktop

Now, onto the desktop version, which is slightly trickier as Google Docs doesn't have a built-in dark mode option like the mobile app. But don't worry. With the help of some browser extensions, you can achieve the same effect. Here's how:

Using Browser Extensions

You'll need to use a browser extension to enable dark mode on your desktop. Here's a simple way to do it using the Dark Reader extension, which is available for most browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge:

• Install Dark Reader: Head to your browser's extension store, search for "Dark Reader," and install it. It's a popular choice for enabling dark mode across websites and is generally safe to use.
• Activate the Extension: Once installed, click on the Dark Reader icon in your browser toolbar.
• Turn on Dark Mode: In the Dark Reader menu, toggle the switch to turn on dark mode. This will apply dark mode to all websites, including Google Docs.
• Adjust Settings: You can also customize your dark mode settings. For instance, you can adjust brightness, contrast, and sepia settings to your liking.

And there you go! With just a few clicks, your desktop Google Docs is now easy on the eyes.

Using CSS for a Custom Solution

If you're someone who likes to tinker with settings and wants a bit more control over how your dark mode looks, you can use custom CSS. It's a more advanced solution, but worth it if you want a personalized touch. Here's a quick guide:

• Install a Style Manager: You'll need a browser extension like "Stylish" or "Stylus." These allow you to add custom CSS to websites.
• Add New Style: Once installed, open the extension and choose to add a new style for Google Docs.
• Enter CSS Code: Paste the following CSS code:

body {
background-color: #2E2E2E,
color: #FFFFFF,
}
.kix-page-content-wrapper {
background-color: #2E2E2E !important,
}

• Save and Apply: Save your changes and make sure the style is enabled. Your Google Docs should now have a custom dark mode theme.

While this method takes a bit more effort, it allows you to tweak the appearance to match your exact preferences.

Dark Mode and Spell

Here's where things get really interesting. If you're using Spell, our AI document editor, you can easily switch to dark mode with a few clicks. Not only does Spell help you create high-quality documents in a fraction of the time, but it also takes care of your comfort with built-in dark mode options.

In Spell, you can describe the kind of document you want to create, and our AI drafts it for you in seconds. This means you're not just saving your eyes from the glare of a bright screen. You're also saving time and effort in document creation. And if you ever need to make edits or collaborate with your team, Spell makes it all happen in real time.

Benefits of Using Dark Mode

Now, let's talk a bit about why dark mode is such a big deal beyond just comfort. Here are a few benefits you might find interesting:

• Reduced Eye Strain: With less brightness, your eyes won't have to work as hard, especially in low-light settings.
• Better Sleep: Blue light from screens can interfere with your sleep cycle. Dark mode reduces exposure to blue light, potentially improving sleep quality.
• Battery Saver: If you're using a device with an OLED screen, dark mode can save battery life. The pixels use less energy when displaying darker colors.
• Focus: Some people find that dark mode helps them focus better by reducing distractions from the screen's bright light.

While these benefits might not apply to everyone, many people find dark mode to be a more comfortable and efficient way to work with documents.

Dark Mode and Productivity

Switching to dark mode isn't just about aesthetics or comfort. It can also boost your productivity. How, you ask? Let's dive into some productivity perks that come with dark mode:

• Extended Work Sessions: Less eye strain means you can work longer without discomfort. This is perfect for those intense late-night study or work sessions.
• Increased Focus: By reducing glare and screen brightness, dark mode can help you concentrate better on the task at hand.
• Customization: Having control over your workspace appearance can make you feel more comfortable and motivated to work.

Of course, productivity is subjective, and what works for one person might not work for another. However, many users find that dark mode helps them stay engaged and focused.

Dark Mode Tips and Tricks

To make the most of dark mode, here are a few tips and tricks you might find useful:

• Adjust Brightness: Dark mode doesn't mean you shouldn't adjust your screen's brightness. Find a level that's comfortable for your eyes.
• Use Blue Light Filters: Consider using a blue light filter in conjunction with dark mode for even less strain on your eyes.
• Take Breaks: Remember the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This reduces eye strain further.

These small adjustments can enhance your dark mode experience and make working on documents even more enjoyable.

When Dark Mode Might Not Be Ideal

While dark mode is fantastic for many, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here are a few scenarios where it might not be the best choice:

• Reading Long Texts: Some studies suggest that dark mode can make reading long passages more difficult for some users.
• Color Accuracy: If you're working with color-sensitive projects, dark mode might alter your perception of colors.
• Outside Use: In bright sunlight, dark mode can be harder to read compared to light mode.

It's all about finding what works for you. If dark mode doesn't suit your needs, there's no harm in sticking with the default light mode.

Alternatives to Dark Mode

If dark mode isn't your cup of tea, there are other ways to reduce eye strain while using Google Docs:

• Blue Light Glasses: These can help filter out harmful blue light, making screen time easier on your eyes.
• Screen Filters: Physical screen filters can reduce glare and make screens easier to look at for extended periods.
• Adjust Text Size and Contrast: Sometimes, simply increasing text size or enhancing contrast can make reading easier.

Experiment with these options to find the best setup for your comfort and productivity.

Final Thoughts

Switching Google Docs to dark mode can be a great way to improve comfort and productivity. From easing eye strain to potentially saving battery life, there are plenty of reasons to give it a try. If you want an easier way to create and manage documents, Spell offers a seamless experience with built-in AI and dark mode options, saving you time and effort. Whether you're a night owl or just looking for a change, dark mode might just be the solution you've been looking for.