Google Doc: How to Format Code

If you’re using Google Docs to share or present code snippets , you might’ve noticed it doesn’t offer built-in syntax highlighting or code formatting like IDEs or markdown editors do. However, there are ways to make your code readable, well-formatted, and professional-looking inside a Google Doc.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the best way to format code in Google Docs , step by step. And if you're looking to convert your code documentation into a form , check out Formswrite.com — a powerful online tool that converts your Google Docs into forms in just one click. No plugins. No coding. Just simplicity.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Format Code in Google Docs

1. Use a Monospace Font

Monospace fonts like * Courier New * , * Consolas * , or * Roboto Mono * make your code more readable.

1. Highlight your code.
2. Go to the **toolbar **and click the font dropdown.
3. Select a monospace font (e.g., *Courier New *).

2. Apply a Code Block Style

To visually separate your code from regular text:

1. Select your code block.
2. Click on the **Format **menu.
3. Choose **Paragraph styles > Normal text > Update ‘Normal text’ to match **(optional).
4. Add **indents **: Go to **Format > Align & Indent > Increase Indent **.
5. Add a **background color **: Go to **Format > Paragraph styles > Borders and shading **.- Set a light gray background.- Optionally add a border to define the block.

3. Preserve Line Breaks and Spacing

Google Docs can sometimes auto-format or wrap code awkwardly.

1. Paste your code into a **Table (1x1 cell) **to preserve layout.
2. Go to **Insert > Table > 1x1 **.
3. Paste your code inside.
4. Format the cell with a monospace font and background.

4. Disable Smart Quotes and Auto-Corrections

Google Docs automatically converts quotes and characters which can break code.

1. Go to **Tools > Preferences **.
2. Uncheck:- "Automatically detect links"- "Use smart quotes"- "Automatically capitalize words"- "Automatically correct spelling"

5. Use Add-ons (Optional)

If you need syntax highlighting:

1. Use add-ons like *Code Blocks *from the **Google Workspace Marketplace **.
2. After installing:- Select your code.- Click **Add-ons > Code Blocks > Format **.- Choose your language and style.

Bonus Tip: Turn Your Docs into Forms Instantly

Want to turn your code documentation or guide into a form for testing, feedback, or quizzes?

Visit Formswrite.com — a no-plugin , browser-based tool that converts your Google Docs into Google Forms in 1-click . Perfect for developers, educators, and technical writers.

Whether you're collecting input on code, creating quizzes, or building structured data, Formswrite makes the transition seamless.

FAQ: Formatting Code in Google Docs