When writing technical documents, tutorials, or sharing code snippets in Google Docs, it is important to present code clearly so readers can understand it easily. Although Google Docs does not have a dedicated code block feature, you can use several simple methods to format code in an organized and professional way.
Steps to Install the Code Block Extension in Google Docs
Follow these steps to install the code block extension in Google Docs:
Step 1: Go to the Google Workspace marketplace
Use this link to go to the Google Workspace Marketplace home page.
Note: Make sure to log in to your Google account if you are not already logged in.
Step 2: Search Code Blocks add-on
Type Code Block add-on in the search bar and press Enter. Select any of the first add-on.
Note: Here we will be selecting the first Code Block Add on for better demonstration.
Step 3: Install Code Blocks
Click on the Install option to add the Code Blocks extension.
Step 4: Allow Download
Give permissions to allow download by clicking on Continue.
Step 5: Select your Gmail Account
Now select the existing Gmail account.
Step 6: Sign In and Click Continue
Click on Continue to sign in to your account.
Step 7: Click on Allow Code Blocks
Once you are signed in, you will see the list of things Code Block can do with your data. Click Allow to proceed with the download.
Once installed, the Google Docs code block add-on will appear in your add-ons list, allowing you to easily insert code blocks in Google Docs whenever needed.
How to Use Code Blocks in Google Docs
The Google Docs code block add-on allows users to format and highlight code with ease, improving the presentation of code snippets in technical documents. Follow these steps to add code in Google Docs using the Code Block add-on:
Step 1: Open the desired Google Docs File
Open the desired document from the Google Docs home page.
Step 2: Enter and Select the Code
You can add the code by directly typing it or by simply copying and pasting it from a code editor.
Step 3: Go to the Extension Tab and Select Code Blocks
Go to the Extensions menu. You will see the added extensions in the list. Click on Code Blocks and select Start.
Step 4: Select your preferred Language
In the side pane that opens, select the desired language from the drop-down.
Step 5: Select a Code Block Theme
To change the colors, you can choose a different theme from the Theme drop-down. Turn on the preview option to see how a particular theme looks.
Note that you will have to click on the Preview button every time you select a theme.
Step 6: Click on Format Button
Click on Format to add the code block to your document.
Step 7: Preview Changes
Here is what the code block looks like:
Tips for Formatting Code Blocks in Google Docs
- Use Consistent Fonts: For manually formatted code, always use a consistent mono-spaced font for better readability.
- Apply Styles: If your code requires specific styling, such as bold or italic text, use the toolbar options to apply styles within your Google Docs code block.
- Leverage Shortcuts: To make inserting code quicker, familiarize yourself with Google Docs shortcuts. For example, use Ctrl + Shift + 8 to quickly insert bullet points when listing code snippets.