Some people think that Word documents and Google documents are different files. While there are certain differences between the two, you can usually import those files interchangeably. 

Google Docs vs Word Docs

Before we go over how to convert Word Docs to Google Docs, let’s first establish their differences:

What is Google Docs?

Google Docs is a web-based platform accessible through a web browser. It’s free and available to anyone with a Google account. Aside from it being a bonus for having a Google account, it’s also a great platform for doing collaborative work and team projects. In fact, you can work on the same document simultaneously on Google Docs! Moreover, its free version gets most of the job done. If your organization needs more collaborative features, organization of assets, and progress tracking, you can subscribe to Google Workspace. 

What about Word Docs?

Unlike Google Docs, “Word Docs” refers to the document or file used by Microsoft Word. It is a standalone desktop application that you need to install on your computer or device. While Google Docs allows working on a doc simultaneously with someone else, Microsoft Word requires file sharing for collaboration. This means that the document you created needs to be emailed or sent elsewhere so they can edit it individually. Moreover, this also means that changes aren’t visible in real-time. 

While Microsoft Word doesn’t seem so intuitive compared to Google Docs, it makes it up for its advanced features and extensive formatting options. You can customize ribbons, toolbars, and choose from a wide range of fonts and styles. It also meshes well with another popular Microsoft tool, Excel. However, Microsoft applications including Word, require a monthly or yearly subscription. There’s a free web version, but it’s limited and doesn’t run optimally compared to Google Docs.

Now that we’ve covered the differences between the two, let’s go over how to convert a Word Doc file to Google Docs. 

1. Go to Google Docs

Open a new tab on your browser and visit Google Docs. If you’re using Google Chrome, you can also do this by clicking on the App Launcher and selecting the application. 

2. Upload your Word Document

Once you’re in Google Docs, click on ‘New’. Then, select ‘File upload’. This will open your Windows Explorer, allowing you to select and upload your Word document. Finally, click on ‘Open’. 

3. Open your newly uploaded Document

Once you do that, you’ll see an upload progress indicator on the bottom right of your screen. Once the upload is completed, click on the file name to open a preview of your document. Then, select ‘Open with Google Docs’ to edit and work on your document. 

4. Save as a Google Docs file

Once you’re on the editing screen, click on ‘File’ and select ‘Save on Google Docs’. You will be brought to a separate tab where your converted document file is. You can differentiate between the two, where a Microsoft Word document will have the .DOC icon, and the Google Docs has none.

And that’s it. This new Google Docs file can now be worked on by another colleague in your Google Workspace in real-time or simultaneously. You can also attach this Google Docs file in an email by simply following these steps.

How to Send a Google Docs File via Email 

1. Click on ‘File’, then select ‘Email’, and ‘Email this file’.

2. Enter your recipient’s email address and other important information. Then click ‘Send’. To verify whether your email has been sent or not, simply go to your Gmail inbox and find the email in the ‘Sent’ folder.

We hope this has been helpful. If you’d like to see the full tutorial or learn more tips for working on Google Workspace, please check out our video on YouTube.