How to Insert Check Marks and Tick Marks in Google Docs

Google Docs is a hugely popular word processor that millions rely on for writing, collaborating, and getting work done. One useful feature in Docs is the ability to insert symbols like check marks and tick marks to call attention to important points or create checklists.

• Using the Insert Special Characters menu
• Formatting bullets and numbers
• Creating interactive checklists
• Typing keyboard shortcuts

Follow along to learn these simple techniques to spice up your Docs!

Insert Check Marks and Tick Marks with Special Characters

The quickest way to add a check mark or tick mark is by using Google Docs’ Insert > Special Characters menu.

1. Position your cursor where you want the symbol inserted
2. Click Insert > Special Characters in the top menu
3. In the search box, type “check mark” or “tick mark”
4. Click the symbol you want from the results on the left
5. Click Close to return to your document

The inserted symbol will appear exactly where your cursor was placed.

Pro Tip: You can copy (Ctrl+C) and paste (Ctrl+V) these special characters anywhere in your document after inserting once.

Format Bullets and Numbers with Check Marks

You can also replace normal bullet points and numbered lists with check marks and tick marks for a more visual style.

Here’s how to switch your bullets or numbers to check mark symbols:

1. Highlight the list you want to format
2. Click Format in the top menu and select Bullets & Numbering
3. Click the drop-down next to “Bullets” or “Numbering”
4. Scroll down and select the check mark or tick mark you want
5. Click Apply to make the change

Your list will now showcase the selected symbol instead of dots or numbers. Feel free to mix and match symbols across different lists!

Build Interactive Checklists

Checklists are a great way to track tasks, milestones, attendance, and any list of items needing verification. Google Docs makes it easy to create customized checklists with clickable checkboxes.

1. Place your cursor where you want the checklist
2. Go to Format >Bullets & Numbering >Checklist
3. Type your list items and press Enter after each one
4. Click the empty checkboxes to toggle between checked and unchecked

You can copy and paste your checklist anywhere in the document to reuse it. The checkboxes will retain their on/off state even when copied.

Type Check Mark Symbols with Keyboard Shortcuts

For rapid check mark insertion without using your mouse, Google Docs has a handy keyboard shortcut:

Ctrl + Shift + 9 (on Windows) or ⌘ + Shift + 9 (on Mac)

This will instantly input a check mark symbol at your cursor’s position.

You can tap the shortcut multiple times to insert many check marks quickly in a row.

Recap and Best Practices

And there you have it – the four main options for inserting check marks and tick marks in Google Docs:

• Special Characters menu – Precise placement of symbols
• Bullets & Numbering formatting – Stylize existing lists
• Checklist tool – Build interactive task trackers
• Keyboard shortcuts – Quick access without the mouse

Some best practices when working with check marks and tick marks:

• Use a consistent symbol throughout each document for clarity
• Experiment with different symbols like color checks or thick ticks to highlight key points
• Make important action items stand out with a checklist using checks
• Save checklists as templates to reuse for similar projects

With this guide under your belt, you can now pepper your Google Docs with check marks galore. These symbols help call attention to important ideas, visualize progress, and organize information.

So next time you’re creating a report, outline, list, or any other document, consider jazzing it up with some checks and ticks!

About The Author

Vegadocs Staff

Vegadocs Staff is comprised with experts in Microsoft Word and Google Docs. With years of experience, their articles offer practical tips for enhanced productivity in digital documentation.