Need more space on the page, or a specific margin for an assignment? Here’s how to change margins in Google Docs using two quick methods.
Method 1: Page setup (most precise)
- Open your document and click File in the top menu.
- Select Page setup.
- Under Margins, enter the values you want for Top, Bottom, Left and Right (in inches).
- Click OK to apply.
Tip: to make these your default for future documents, click Set as default in the Page setup window.
Method 2: The ruler (quick drag)
- Make sure the ruler is on (View > Show ruler).
- Hover over the grey area at the edge of the ruler until the cursor becomes a double arrow.
- Drag inward or outward to set the left and right margins visually.
What are the default margins in Google Docs?
By default, Google Docs uses 1 inch (2.54 cm) margins on all four sides, which matches most academic and business standards.
How to change margins in the Google Docs app
On mobile, tap the three-dot menu, then Page setup. Margin control is limited in the app, so for exact values it’s best to use Google Docs on a computer.
Frequently asked questions
What margins should I use for an essay?
1 inch on all sides is the standard for APA, MLA and most school assignments, which is also the Google Docs default.
Can I set different margins for one section?
Google Docs applies margins to the whole document. For a single section, use indentation instead.
More Google Docs tips: How to do a hanging indent and How to double space in Google Docs.