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Simple Steps to Download Google Docs as PDF

July 31, 2023 6.4K views

Are you searching for an easy way to download a Google Doc as a PDF? Then you are in the right place! This article will show you how to download and save a Google Doc as a PDF in straightforward steps. Let's dive right in!

Google Docs and PDFs

Google docs is a free collaboration tool for teams. It allows users to edit, share, and store documents. Google docs also will enable you to access your files and make edits offline. These edits are updated whenever your device gets back online.

The significant advantage of google docs is its compatibility with different devices. However, a major limitation of google docs is that most of its functions can be limited without internet access.

PDFs, on the other hand, are a secure and easily readable alternative. PDF(Portable Document Format) is a file format that allows you to view a document in its original form. This is irrespective of the kind of device. One major disadvantage of PDFs, however, is that they take up more space when compared to other file formats.

Steps to Download Google Docs as PDF

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to download a google doc as a PDF;

Method 1: How to Download Google Docs as PDFs on a PC

1. Open google docs on your computer's web browser. If you are logged into your Google account, this will open the Google Docs page.

If you are not logged in, follow the prompts and provide your email address and password to log in.

2. Select a document. Click on the document you want to download to open it in your browser.

3. Click File. On the upper-left side of the page, there is a “File” option. A drop-down menu will appear after you click it.

If you're using a Mac, click the “File” option in the web browser and not the one on the upper-left corner of your screen.

4. Select "Download." You’ll find this option in the “File” drop-down menu. Click “Download.” This should prompt a pop-out menu.

5. Select a Format. From the pop-out menu, click the file format you want to select. In this case, click “PDF document (.pdf)" to create a PDF. Doing this prompts your Google Docs file to download onto your computer.

Note that, depending on your web browser's settings, you may need to select a save location or confirm the download before your file will be downloaded.

Method 2: How to Download Google Docs as PDFs on iPhone

1. Unfortunately, a Google Doc cannot be directly downloaded into an iPhone. However, you can make the file available offline to view and edit the document even without an internet connection.

2. Open Google Drive.  Ensure that you are logged in to your Google account.

3. Find the Google Docs file that you want to download.

4. Click the three dots to the right of the Google Doc file.

5. Scroll down and tap the white “Available offline” switch. The switch will turn blue, and this signifies that you can have access to the file whenever you want, even without internet access.

Method 3: How to Download Google Docs as PDFs on Android

1. Open google drive and select the file you want to download.

2. Tap the three vertical dots on the bottom-right corner of the document. A drop-down menu should appear. (You can also hold the file’s thumbnail and move to the next step).

Open the PDF file.

Go to the “File” menu

Click on the “Export to” option

Select “Images” and then the desired file format. Choose the quality of the images that you would want to export. I suggest going with the “JPEG” file format.

Select the location where you want to export the images, and click “Save”.

3. Tap download on the drop-down menu. If you long-pressed the thumbnail instead, the download option would appear at the bottom of your screen.

4. If this is your first time downloading files from Google Drive to your Android, you’ll be prompted to allow access to your android files. For most Androids, the files are saved in “downloads” and can be opened using WPS Office.

Tips for Downloading Google Docs as PDFs

After following the above steps, you may still be unable to download Google Docs as a PDF. Here are 2 easy fixes for such problems;

1. Check File Permissions

With Google Docs, you can share your files with your contacts. While sharing a file, you can also assign permission. If you cannot download a Google Doc file as a PDF, your permission to access the document may have been restricted.

2. Check For Faulty Browser Extensions

If you are still unable to download a Google Docs file as a PDF, you should check the extensions installed on your browser. Likely, some extensions installed on your browser might not have received updates. This means they are no longer compatible with your browser.  Buggy browser extensions cause some issues with Google Docs.

FAQs

Can I Download Multiple Files at Once?

Yes. To do this, select multiple files and then right-click on one of them. Select "Download." The files will be downloaded after being combined into a compressed archive.

Can I Save Google Docs Files on My Computer Automatically?

Yes. If you want to save your Google Docs files on your computer automatically, you should install Google Drive’s Backup and Sync program on your PC. This permits you to view your google drive files using the Google Drive folder on your PC.

Learn More About How to Download Google Docs as PDFs

Downloading google docs as PDFs is very easy and doesn't require any particular skill or expertise. It is a straightforward process and doesn't require any intermediaries or converters to be achieved. Always keep in mind that when google docs are saved as PDFs, they cannot be edited except with the use of an editor.

Are you ready to create, edit and share your PDF files? Download WPS Office and unleash your creativity today!


15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.