Google drive - Convert a Word Document Into a Google Doc

Do you have Word documents you would like to be able to edit in Google Docs. Read on and learn how to convert your Word documents into Google Docs, so you can begin sharing, commenting, and editing today!

Google Docs has now implemented a new Office Editor which allows you to view, edit, share, and collaborate on your old Word document files. However, you still must select open with Google Docs in order to edit them. As such, it is best that you convert your Word documents to Google Docs.

The best way to convert Word documents is while you upload them. To do this, you must take some steps prior to uploading your Word Documents. If you have already uploaded Word Documents, do not worry, scroll past the first section for instructions on how to convert already uploaded Word Documents to Google Docs.

How to convert Word Documents to Google Docs as you upload (the easiest way):

There are two benefits of this method for converting Word Documents to Google Docs. First, it is automatic-- Google Drive does all the work for you AND it can be used with multiple files at once. Secondly, your drive will not be cluttered with the duplicates of copies of the same file, one a Word Document and one a Google Docs.

Open your Google Drive to the home page.
In the top right hand corner, click on the gear icon.
1. Then click on Settings
In the "General" tab, the second section is called "Convert uploads"
1. In this section, check the box next to the option that says, "Convert uploaded files to Google Docs editor format"
Click "Done
Upload Word documents or folders of Word documents using the "New" button on the left side of your screen.

DONE: Now, any Word Documents you upload to Google Drive will be automatically converted to Google Docs. In addition, Excel files will be converted to Google Sheets and Powerpoints will be converted to Google Slides. To disable this option, simply follow the steps and un-check the box.

How to convert already uploaded Word Documents to Google Docs:

If you have already uploaded Word documents to your Google drive, you must convert them one by one.

Start by locating the Word document in your drive.
Once located, double click to open.
At the top of the file, click the open with menu and select Google Docs
In the opened Word Document, select the file menu below the document name.
1. Select "Save as Google Docs"

DONE: You have now converted a Word document. You may follow the same steps with your other Word documents you wish to convert.