Being Tricky
The short answer
To check word count in Google Docs on a computer, press Ctrl + Shift + C (Windows or Chromebook) or ⌘ + Shift + C (Mac), or click Tools → Word count.
At a glance
About 20 minutes · Medium · For Google
Key point 1 of 5
This works the same in Chrome, Edge, Safari and other browsers, because the counter is part of Google Docs rather than your browser.
Key point 2 of 5
If you're writing to a limit, a running total saves you opening the box again and again.
Key point 3 of 5
Google says the counter covers the whole document unless you select a section.
Key point 4 of 5
The Google Docs app shows word count too.
Key point 5 of 5
Knowing what's counted avoids surprises when a teacher or website gets a different number.
Quick tip
Writing to a character limit, such as a social post or a form field?
You might ask
What is the shortcut for word count in Google Docs? Press Ctrl + Shift + C on Windows or a Chromebook, or ⌘ + Shift + C on a Mac.
Want every step?
Being Tricky