How to Add Current Time in Google Docs

Adding the current time in Google Docs can be essential for keeping your documents updated, tracking progress, or creating time-sensitive records. Unlike Microsoft Word, Google Docs doesn’t have a direct built-in feature to insert dynamic timestamps, but there are simple ways to do it using Google Docs and tools like Formswrite .

Methods to Add Current Time in Google Docs

1. Manual Entry

The easiest way to add the current time in Google Docs is to type it manually. Simply place your cursor where you want the time and enter it in your preferred format, such as10:30 AMor22:30. While simple, this method doesn’t update automatically.

2. Using Google Sheets Integration

If you need an automatic timestamp, Google Sheets is your best friend. Here’s how:

• Open Google Sheets and use the formula=NOW()to get the current date and time.

• Copy the result from Google Sheets.

• Paste it into your Google Docs.

This method ensures you have an accurate time, although it requires manual updates if you want it to stay current.

3. Using Google Apps Script

For advanced users, Google Apps Script allows you to automate time insertion:

• Open your Google Docs.

• Click on Extensions > Apps Script .

• Paste a script that inserts the current time at the cursor position.

• Save and run the script.

This method is ideal for users who frequently need timestamps in documents.

4. Using Formswrite for Time-Stamped Google Forms

If your goal is to create time-sensitive forms, Formswrite is a powerful solution. Formswrite isn’t a plugin but a website that allows you to:

• Convert your Google Docs, Google Sheets, or PDFs into Google Forms in one click.

• Add timers to your forms, ensuring respondents can only submit within a set time.

• Automatically include timestamps in forms submissions for accurate tracking.

This makes Formswrite an excellent choice for educators, event organizers, and businesses needing precise timing features.

Why Adding Current Time Matters

Including the current time in your Google Docs is essential for:

• Maintaining accurate records and logs

• Managing deadlines and submissions

• Automating workflows with Google Apps Script or Formswrite

FAQ

Q1: Can I automatically update the current time in Google Docs? Yes, but it requires using Google Apps Script. Manual entry or copying from Google Sheets won’t auto-update.

Q2: What is Formswrite, and how can it help? Formswrite is a website that converts Google Docs, Sheets, or PDFs into Google Forms with one click. It also allows you to add timers, making it perfect for time-sensitive tasks.

Q3: Can I insert a timer in Google Docs using Formswrite? Directly, no. But if you convert your document into a Google Form via Formswrite, you can add a timer to the form.

Q4: Is Formswrite a Google Docs plugin? No, Formswrite is a web-based tool that works independently to convert documents into forms and add timer features.