How to Make Hollow Bullet Points in Google Docs

Google Docs is a fantastic tool for creating and collaborating on documents. Sometimes the styling can feel a bit limited. One common question is how to make hollow bullet points. These can add a bit of flair and help visually differentiate your lists. While Google Docs doesn't have this option directly in its bullet point menu, there are a few clever workarounds you can use to achieve this effect. Let's go through the process step by step so you can add a bit of style to your next document.

Using Special Characters

One of the simplest ways to create hollow bullet points is by using special characters. This method is straightforward and doesn't require any special extensions or scripts. Here's how you can do it:

• Open your document: First, make sure your Google Doc is open and ready to go.
• Access the Special Characters menu: Go to Insert in the top menu, then select Special Characters.
• Find the right symbol: In the search bar, type "circle" or "bullet" to find a variety of circular symbols. Look for hollow circles that fit the style you want.
• Insert the symbol: Click on the hollow circle symbol to insert it into your document.
• Use as bullet points: You can now use this symbol as a bullet point by copying and pasting it at the start of each line in your list.

This method is easy and gives you a variety of styles to choose from, but it can be a bit tedious if you have a long list. On the upside, it's a quick way to get the job done without leaving Google Docs.

Customizing Bullets with Unicode

If you're looking for a more streamlined way to use hollow bullet points, Unicode offers a great alternative. Unicode characters can be copied and pasted directly into your document, making them a breeze to use. Here's how to do it:

• Find the Unicode character: Search online for "Unicode hollow bullet" to find the specific code you need. For example, U+25CB is a common hollow circle.
• Copy the character: Once you find the character, copy it to your clipboard.
• Paste into your document: Head back to your Google Doc and paste the character where you want the bullet point.
• Repeat as needed: Use this character at the start of each line in your list to maintain consistency.

Using Unicode is a great option because it's quick and gives you a consistent look. Plus, you can find a variety of characters online to suit your style preferences.

Leveraging Google Docs Add-ons

For those who use Google Docs extensively, add-ons can be a lifesaver. There are several add-ons available that provide additional styling options, including custom bullet points. Here's how you can use an add-on to create hollow bullet points:

• Access the Add-ons menu: Click on Add-ons at the top of your Google Docs screen, then select Get add-ons.
• Search for bullet point add-ons: In the G Suite Marketplace, search for add-ons that provide bullet point customization.
• Install your chosen add-on: Once you've found an add-on you like, click Install and follow the on-screen instructions to add it to your Google Docs.
• Use the add-on: After installation, you can access the add-on via the Add-ons menu and follow its instructions to create hollow bullet points.

Add-ons can be a powerful way to extend the functionality of Google Docs, allowing you to customize your documents in ways that aren't natively supported.

Creating a Template with Hollow Bullets

If you frequently use hollow bullet points, creating a template can save you loads of time. Here's a simple approach to setting this up:

• Create a new document: Open a new Google Doc to start your template.
• Set up your bullet point style: Use one of the previous methods to insert hollow bullet points.
• Format your list: Adjust the spacing, indentation, and font size to suit your preferences.
• Save as a template: Once you're satisfied with the setup, save the document and name it something like "Hollow Bullets Template."
• Reuse your template: Whenever you need hollow bullet points, open this document, copy the formatted list, and paste it into your new document.

This method ensures consistency across documents and saves time, especially if hollow bullet points are a staple in your work.

Using Custom Styles

Creating custom styles in Google Docs can give you even more control over the appearance of your bullet points. Here's how you can set up a custom style:

• Open your document: Start with a new or existing document.
• Set your bullet point style: Use the Unicode or special characters method to insert a hollow bullet.
• Select the styled text: Highlight the line with your custom bullet point.
• Update your style: Click on the Styles dropdown (usually labeled as Normal text), hover over your desired style (like Heading 1), and click Update [style] to match.
• Apply your style: Use this custom style throughout your document for consistent formatting.

Custom styles are a bit more involved to set up but offer a reusable way to apply your preferred formatting across your documents.

Using Spell for Style Enhancements

While Google Docs is a versatile tool, sometimes you need a little extra help to achieve the exact style you want. This is where Spell can come in handy. With built-in AI, Spell allows you to draft, refine, and improve your document style effortlessly. Here's how Spell can help:

• Automated styling: Spell's AI can suggest style improvements, including bullet point formatting, to enhance your document's appearance.
• Real-time collaboration: Work with your team in real time, ensuring everyone's on the same page with document styling.
• Easy customization: Use natural language prompts to tweak bullet points and other styles without manual adjustments.

Spell offers a seamless experience for those looking to elevate their document styling without the hassle of manual formatting.

Using Google Drawings for Unique Bullets

If you want to get really creative, Google Drawings offers an interesting way to design custom bullet points. It's a bit more work, but the results can be worth it:

• Open Google Drawings: Go to Google Drive, click New, then More, and select Google Drawings.
• Create your bullet: Use the shape tool to draw a hollow circle or any other shape you prefer.
• Export the drawing: Once you're happy with your design, click File, then Download, and choose an appropriate format (such as PNG).
• Insert into Google Docs: Go back to your document, click Insert, then Image, and upload your custom bullet.
• Use as bullet points: Copy and paste your image at the start of each line to create your list.

This method is perfect for those looking to add a unique touch to their documents, although it's more time-consuming than other methods.

Exploring Fonts for Unique Bullets

Fonts can also play a role in how your bullet points appear. Some fonts include interesting bullet point styles as part of their character set. Here's how to use fonts to create hollow bullets:

• Change your font: Highlight your text and choose a different font from the dropdown menu. Fonts like "Webdings" or "Wingdings" often include unique symbols.
• Select the right character: Use your keyboard to type different characters that might render as hollow bullets in the chosen font.
• Adjust as needed: If the character isn't quite what you're looking for, try another character or font until you find the right fit.

This method allows for a lot of creativity but requires some trial and error to find the perfect combination.

Final Thoughts

Customizing bullet points in Google Docs can be a fun way to enhance your documents. From using special characters to leveraging the power of Spell, there are plenty of ways to achieve the look you want. Spell can make this process even faster by allowing you to draft and refine your documents with AI, saving you time and effort. Whether you're creating a simple list or designing a complex document, these tips should help you add a touch of style with hollow bullet points.