how to delete column in google docs

2025

3 min read 31-03-2025

Deleting a column in Google Docs isn't as straightforward as in spreadsheet programs like Google Sheets. Google Docs is primarily designed for text documents, not tables with easily manipulated columns. However, there are a few methods to effectively remove a column from your Google Doc table. This guide will walk you through each one, ensuring you can efficiently manage your document's layout.

Method 1: Deleting Cells Individually (For Small Tables)

If your table is small, deleting each cell in the column one by one is the simplest approach.

Select the first cell in the column you wish to delete.
Press the Delete key on your keyboard. This removes the contents of the cell, but leaves the empty cell in place.
Repeat steps 1 and 2 for each cell in the column.
Once all cells are empty, you'll visually have a blank column. However, this method doesn't truly delete the column structurally.

This method is best for: Small tables where manually deleting cells is faster than other methods.

Note: This method will leave empty space. You might need to manually adjust cell spacing or table dimensions to get rid of the unsightly gaps.

Method 2: Using "Cut" and "Paste" (Efficient for Moderate Tables)

This method retains the table's structure more effectively, albeit it's a little more involved.

Select all the cells in the column you want to remove. You can do this by clicking the first cell and then dragging your mouse to select all cells in that column.
Right-click on the selected cells.
Select "Cut" from the context menu. This removes the selected cells from the table but stores them in your clipboard.
Paste the column's contents elsewhere if you might need them later. (Optional)
Your table now has a missing column. You might need to adjust cell spacing or table size to compensate.

This method is best for: Tables of moderate size. It's cleaner than individual cell deletion but still involves manual steps.

Method 3: Re-creating the Table (For Large Tables & Complex Layouts)

For larger tables or those with complex formatting, this is the most efficient and structurally sound method, even if it takes a bit more time initially.

Copy the entire table content, excluding the column to be deleted. Select the entire table except the column you wish to delete, copy it (Ctrl+C or Cmd+C).
Create a new table with the appropriate number of rows and columns. The number of columns will be one less than the original table.
Paste your copied content into the new table. Google Docs will generally handle the row and column alignment well, provided the copy was done appropriately.

This method is best for: Large tables, tables with complex formatting, or when you want to ensure clean structural changes.

Method 4: Using Google Sheets (For Seamless Column Deletion)

If your table is significantly large or requires frequent column manipulation, consider using Google Sheets instead.

Copy your Google Doc table and paste it into a new Google Sheet.
Delete the column in Google Sheets using its built-in column deletion functionality (selecting the column header and hitting the delete key).
Copy the modified table from Google Sheets and paste it back into your Google Doc.

This method is best for: Frequent table manipulation, large tables, and situations where ease of column removal is paramount.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I delete a column without affecting other data?

Methods 2 and 3 are best for minimizing disruption to the rest of the table's data. Method 3, re-creating the table, is the most reliable.

What if my table is merged across multiple cells?

Merged cells can make column deletion more complicated. Consider using Method 3 (re-creating the table) to ensure the table structure remains consistent.

By following these methods, you can effectively manage and remove columns from your Google Docs tables, regardless of their size or complexity. Remember to choose the method that best suits your specific needs and table size.