BizTech Q&A 24: Google Docs almost dark mode

Answering your questions about business and technology

Question

I use dark mode with as many programs as possible to reduce eye fatigue.  I am using a Google Workspace version of Google Docs and there is not a dark mode option.  Is there anything that I can do to get the screen darker?

~ Damien

Answer

Hello,

Am I really asking myself a question?  Yup.  

I had this question the other day and, after I looked into it, I thought that others might have the same question so I am adding it just in case.  

Yeah, you can actually get “hack” Google Docs to be close to a dark mode by changing the background color of the document and using fullscreen mode.  

If that was description enough, then see you next time.  If not then keep reading and I will break down the steps.

Changing the background color

1. 1. 1. With a document open, click on File, then Page Setup
         1. This will open the Page Setup window
            
      2. Under background color, click on the arrow to get all of your color options.
      3. Choose a default or custom color and click OK.
         1. Keep in mind that you’ll likely have to change the text color to something lighter to show up on a dark background (usually white or light grey).

Changing to Fullscreen mode

1. 1. 1. With a document open, click on View, the Full Screen
         1. Once you are in Full Screen mode, you exit by pressing Escape

This combination will make the page as dark as you want.  

The fullscreen mode piece is necessary because the menu section is not part of the page, and the color will not change when you change the background color.  If you are okay with that, you can leave it, but hiding it will give you an almost dark mode experience.

Hope that helps
~ Damien