You don’t have to spend hours manually highlighting the different parts of your code snippets. Instead, you can use a Google Doc code block feature to simplify the process.
Follow along as we discuss how to insert them in two easy ways.
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What Are Google Doc Code Blocks?
Highlighting your code syntax by manual formatting in Google Docs is an absolute pain. Now imagine doing that for a hundred lines of code!
Fortunately, Google Docs has recently released a solution: Code blocks. These blocks are designed to assist IT developers, coders, and others in the field by making their code snippets visually pleasing and easily readable.
Why Use Google Docs to Insert Code Blocks?
When you add code block to Google Docs, you make it more readable and organized. This is important for several reasons:
1. Collaborating
Google Doc code snippets make it easier for teams to collaborate on programs and algorithms. Team members can more readily see the different parts of the code and how they fit together.
2. Highlighting
Code blocks can be used to highlight the most essential parts of code. By drawing attention to key elements, readers should be able to understand them more effectively.
3. Understanding
Presenting code to clients is often crucial, especially for those with established IT teams. Adding code blocks can help clients better understand the reported code. This, in turn, should improve communication and foster greater trust between developers and clients.
How To Add a Code Block to Google Docs
Ready to add code in Google Docs? Choose the method below that applies to you.
Method 1: Using the Insert Menu in Google Docs
Before trying this method, please note that the built-in “Code block” feature is unavailable for personal Google accounts. You’ll need a Workspace account (Business, Enterprise, or Education) to access it.
- Open your document on Google Docs.
- Paste your code snippet on the document page.
- Highlight your code snippet.
- Click on “Insert” > “Building blocks” > “Code block.”
- Select your preferred programming language from the options displayed:
- C/C++
- Java
- JavaScript
- Python
- Unset
And that’s it! You should now have a well-formatted code block on your Google Docs document.
Method 2: Using the “Code Blocks” Add-on
If you can’t access a Workspace account, there’s still a workaround for personal accounts. This involves installing the “Code Blocks” add-on, which you can download from Google Marketplace.
While plenty of code formatting extensions are available online, after putting them to the test, we believe that Code Blocks is one of the best. Follow the guide below to learn how to insert code in Google Docs using the add-on:
Installing the Add-on
You may be asked to grant certain permissions to access the add-on’s features. Based on our first-hand experience, the requested permissions are safe. If you wish to proceed, follow the steps below:
- On your Google document, choose “Extensions” > “Add-ons” > “Get add-ons.”
- Click on the search bar, then type “Code Blocks.”
- Pick the result developed by Alex Forsythe.
- Click “Install” and proceed as instructed.
How To Format Code Blocks in Google Docs
Once you have the add-on set up, you’ll be able to add code blocks to Google Docs (even with a personal account):
- Open the Google document that contains your code snippet.
- Highlight the code block, then click on “Extensions” > “Code Blocks” > “Start.”
- Pick your preferred programming language under “Language” (or leave it as “auto).
- Select an option from the “Theme” dropdown list.
- Hit the “Format” button.
You can also hit the “Preview” button before finalizing your code formatting. This allows you to select a style that suits your taste or purpose.
Troubleshooting Google Docs Code Blocks
If either of these two code formatting methods doesn’t work on your end, there are some possible fixes to try:
1. Check Your Google Account
As mentioned, the “Code block” feature in Google Docs is only available for selected Google Workspace accounts. Please refer to the types of Workspace accounts listed below to check if you can access this feature:
- Business Standard and Plus
- Enterprise Standard and Plus
- Education Standard and Plus
- Nonprofit organizations
2. Disable Your Browser Extensions
According to experts on the Google Support page, you can troubleshoot the Google Docs code snippet feature by disabling your browser extensions. If the feature now appears on your interface, one of these extensions may have been the reason why it was unavailable before.
Other steps to take include:
- Clearing your browser’s cache
- Closing and reopening Google Docs
- Disabling VPNs and filters
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Add Code Blocks in Google Docs?
Yes, you can! Simply go to “Insert” > “Building blocks” > “Code block” and choose your preferred programming language. This feature is not available for personal Google accounts. However, you can use the “Code Blocks” add-on from Google Marketplace.
What Are the Code Blocks Styles in Google Docs?
Google Docs supports the following code block styles:
- C/C++
- Java
- JavaScript
- Python
- Unset
The code will be styled with a light gray background, and the text color will be based on the selected programming language.
Final Thoughts
The new Google Doc code block feature is undoubtedly a godsend that allows you to format code in Google Docs easily. Simply utilize any of the methods we discussed here, and you’re ready to roll!
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