Printing from Google Docs on your iPhone or Android device is easier than you might think. All you need is the Google Docs app, a printer that supports mobile printing, and a few taps on your screen. After you’ve completed the steps, you’ll have a physical copy of your document in no time.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Print from Google Docs on iPhone or Android
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let’s quickly go over what you’ll achieve by following these steps. You’ll learn how to print your documents directly from the Google Docs app on your mobile device, which is super handy when you’re on the go or don’t have access to a computer.
Step 1: Open the Google Docs App
Open the Google Docs app on your iPhone or Android device.
Once you’ve opened the app, make sure you’re logged into your Google account and have the document you want to print open and ready to go.
Step 2: Tap the Three Dots Menu
Look for the three dots menu icon in the upper right corner of your screen and tap on it.
This menu is also known as the "More" menu and it’s where you’ll find additional options for your document, such as sharing and printing.
Step 3: Select ‘Print’
Scroll through the menu options and select the ‘Print’ option.
After you tap ‘Print,’ your device will move you to the printing interface where you can choose your printer and print settings.
Step 4: Choose Your Printer
Choose the printer you want to use from the list of available printers.
If your printer isn’t showing up, make sure it’s on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your mobile device. You might also need to enable mobile printing on your printer.
Step 5: Adjust Print Settings
Adjust any print settings you need, such as the number of copies, color options, or paper size.
These settings will vary depending on your printer’s capabilities, so take a moment to ensure everything is set exactly how you want it.
Step 6: Tap ‘Print’
Once you’re happy with your print settings, tap the ‘Print’ button to send your document to the printer.
And that’s it! Your document will start printing and you’ll soon have a physical copy in your hands.
After completing these steps, your document will print from the printer you selected. You can pick up your printed document and use it however you need. Remember, the actual printing time will depend on your printer’s speed and the length of your document.
Tips: Printing from Google Docs on iPhone or Android
- Make sure your printer supports mobile printing; not all printers do.
- Check that both your mobile device and printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Update the Google Docs app to ensure you have the latest printing features.
- Preview your document before printing to catch any formatting issues.
- Consider whether you need to print in color or if black and white will suffice, as color printing often uses more ink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print from Google Docs without the app?
No, you need the Google Docs app installed on your mobile device to print directly from it.
What if my printer isn’t showing up in the print options?
Ensure your printer is turned on, supports mobile printing, and is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your device. You may also need to update the printer’s firmware.
Can I print double-sided from Google Docs on mobile?
This depends on your printer’s capabilities. If it supports double-sided printing, you should find the option in your print settings.
Why is my document not printing correctly?
Check your print settings and preview the document before printing. Make sure the paper size and orientation match your document’s layout.
How can I save on ink while printing from Google Docs?
Try printing in draft mode or black and white if color isn’t necessary. You can also adjust your document’s content to be more ink-efficient.
Summary
- Open the Google Docs app.
- Tap the three dots menu.
- Select ‘Print.’
- Choose your printer.
- Adjust print settings.
- Tap ‘Print.’
Conclusion
Printing from Google Docs on your iPhone or Android device is a convenient way to get a hard copy of your documents without needing a computer. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who needs to print a recipe or an itinerary, the process is straightforward. It’s a testament to how mobile devices have evolved to become versatile tools for productivity.
Keep in mind that, while mobile printing is incredibly convenient, it’s always a good idea to preview your documents before printing to ensure formatting is correct. Also, be mindful of your printer’s ink levels and capabilities to avoid any unwanted surprises.
If you encounter any issues while printing, remember to check your printer’s compatibility with mobile printing and ensure that both your device and printer are on the same network. With a little bit of preparation and understanding of your devices, you’ll be printing from Google Docs like a pro in no time.
For those who frequently need to print documents on the go, consider investing in a printer that excels in mobile printing. It might just make your life that much easier. And remember, the digital world is your oyster—keep exploring, keep learning, and keep printing from Google Docs on your iPhone or Android!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.