Google Docs

How to Send a Google Doc as a PDF

Spencer LanoueSpencer Lanoue
Google Docs

Sending a Google Doc as a PDF can be a real lifesaver, especially when you want to ensure your document's formatting stays intact. Whether you're sharing a report with a client or submitting an assignment, converting your Google Doc to a PDF is a useful skill to have in your toolkit. So, let's walk through the process and explore different ways to accomplish this task like a pro.

🔮
The AI Alternative to Google Docs & Word:
Save time by letting Spell write your docs for you. Turn hours of doc writing work into minutes. Try it free →

Using Google Docs to Export as PDF

Google Docs makes it super easy to save your document as a PDF. In fact, it's just a few clicks away. Here's how you can do it:

  • Open your Google Doc that you want to convert to a PDF.
  • Click on File in the top-left corner of the screen.
  • From the dropdown menu, hover over Download, and then select PDF Document (.pdf).
  • The PDF version of your document will automatically download to your computer.

It's as easy as pie, right? This method is perfect when you need to quickly convert a document without any fuss. The PDF will maintain your original formatting, ensuring it looks professional and polished. On the other hand, if you're dealing with larger files or want to share directly via email, there are other ways to streamline the process.

Sending a Google Doc as a PDF via Email

Suppose you're in a rush and want to send the PDF directly to someone's email. Google Docs can handle that for you too. Here's what you need to do:

  • Open the Google Doc you wish to send.
  • Click on File and then choose Email.
  • Select Email this file.
  • In the dialog box, enter the recipient's email address, add a subject, and type your message.
  • Ensure the PDF option is selected from the file format dropdown.
  • Click Send.

And there you have it! Your Google Doc has been sent as a PDF straight from the document editor. A nifty feature for those urgent situations when you need to get your document to someone ASAP. No need to download and attach files manually.

Utilizing Google Drive for PDF Conversion

If you're someone who likes to store documents in Google Drive, you can still convert them to PDF without opening Google Docs. Here's a quick guide:

  • Go to Google Drive and find the document you want to convert.
  • Right-click the document and select Open with, then Google Docs.
  • Once the document opens in Google Docs, follow the previous steps to download or email it as a PDF.

This method is particularly useful if you're managing multiple documents or if you prefer working directly from Google Drive. It gives you the flexibility to convert files without needing to open them in a separate tab.

The AI-First Document Editor
Spell is the AI-powered alternative to Google Docs and Microsoft Word.
Get started for free

Converting Multiple Google Docs to PDFs

What if you have several documents that need converting? No worries, there's a way to handle batch processing. While Google Docs doesn't natively support batch conversion, you can use Google Drive to your advantage:

  • Open Google Drive and select all the documents you want to convert.
  • Right-click and choose Download.
  • Your documents will be compressed into a ZIP file, and the Google Docs will be converted to PDFs automatically.

Once you unzip the downloaded file, you'll have all your documents in PDF format. This is a great time-saver if you're dealing with multiple files, allowing you to focus on what really matters. Like impressing your boss with your productivity skills!

Using Third-Party Add-ons for More Functionality

Sometimes, the basic features of Google Docs aren't enough. In such cases, turning to third-party add-ons can be a game-changer. There are several add-ons available that can enhance your Google Docs experience, such as "PDF Mergy" or "PDFfiller." Here's how to use them:

  • Open your Google Doc and click on Add-ons from the menu bar.
  • Select Get add-ons and search for a PDF-related add-on.
  • Click on the add-on you want to try and follow the installation instructions.
  • Once installed, you can access it via the Add-ons menu.

Using add-ons can add functionality like merging multiple PDFs into one or editing PDFs directly. While these tools can be helpful, always ensure that you trust the add-on provider before installing, as you'll be granting them access to your documents.

Sharing PDFs with Spell

While Google Docs is a fantastic tool, sometimes you might want the power of AI to help you craft your documents. That's where Spell comes into play. Spell allows you to generate high-quality documents with AI, making it much faster than traditional methods. You can start with a draft in Google Docs and then use Spell to refine it. Once you're happy with your work, Spell can also help you convert and share your document as a PDF quickly.

With the ability to create polished documents in minutes, Spell helps take the burden off your shoulders and lets you focus on your message rather than the mechanics of document formatting.

Go From Idea to Polished Doc 10x Faster With Spell 🪄
Get started for free

Formatting Tips for PDFs

Before converting your Google Doc into a PDF, you might want to ensure it's polished. Here are some formatting tips to consider:

  • Check Margins: Make sure your document's margins are set correctly. PDFs preserve the layout, so double-check these settings to avoid awkward spacing.
  • Use Consistent Fonts: Stick to standard fonts to avoid any rendering issues in the PDF. Fonts like Arial or Times New Roman are safe bets.
  • Add Page Numbers: If your document is lengthy, consider adding page numbers for easy navigation.
  • Proofread: It's always a good idea to give your document a final read-through. Typos and grammatical errors can detract from your professionalism.

By paying attention to these details, you can ensure your PDF looks as good as it reads. After all, first impressions matter, especially in written communication.

Working with Images and Graphics

Images and graphics can add a lot of value to your document, but they can sometimes lead to issues when converting to PDF. Here's how to handle them effectively:

  • Use High-Quality Images: Ensure your images are high resolution to avoid pixelation in the PDF.
  • Check Image Placement: Align images properly with text to ensure a smooth flow.
  • Test Print: Before finalizing, print a test page to see how images appear on paper. This can help identify any potential alignment or placement issues.

Handling images with care ensures that your PDF doesn't just convey information but does so in a visually appealing manner. It's all about creating a document that's as engaging to look at as it is to read.

The AI Alternative to Google Docs
Go from idea to polished doc in seconds with Spell's AI-powered document editor.
Create my first doc

Saving PDFs with Spell

If you're already using Spell, you know how easy it is to create documents with AI assistance. But did you know that Spell also streamlines the process of saving your documents as PDFs? After using Spell to draft and refine your document, converting it to a PDF is as straightforward as a few clicks. The integration of AI means you can produce polished content quickly and efficiently, minimizing the time spent on formatting and conversion tasks.

This functionality is particularly useful for teams and businesses that need to produce high-quality documents regularly. By leveraging Spell, you can stay ahead of deadlines and maintain a high standard of work.

Final Thoughts

Converting a Google Doc to a PDF is a straightforward process, whether you're doing it from Google Docs, Drive, or by using third-party tools. By knowing your options, you can choose the method that best suits your needs. Spell can also assist by enhancing your document creation process with AI, making it faster and more efficient. With the right tools and techniques, sharing your documents as PDFs will be a breeze.

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.

Related posts