Do you need to convert a Google Doc to a PDF file on an iPhone or iPad? This is helpful if you need to print or share your documents without worrying about format changes. Luckily, Google Docs has a built-in Share & Export feature that makes this process easy. If you can’t use the export feature, you can still use iOS’ print feature. Here’s how to convert a Google Doc to a PDF on iPhone or iPad.
Before you start: Ensure your iPhone/iPad and Google Docs app are updated to the newest available version.
How to convert a Google Doc to a PDF on iPhone or iPad
Follow these steps to convert your document easily.
- Open the Google Docs app on your iPhone or iPad. The app’s icon has a blue sheet of paper with one down-turned corner, usually found on the home screen.
- Tap the document you want to convert. This will open it.
- Tap the ••• menu at the top-right corner.
- Tap Share & export towards the bottom of the menu.
- Tap Send a copy near the middle of the menu.
- Tap PDF. A check mark will appear next to this option. If you don’t see this option, try using the print method instead.
- Tap OK. The document will now convert to a PDF, and the sharing screen will appear.
- Share the PDF using your preferred method:
- If you have AirDrop enabled, tap the name of the AirDrop device at the top of the sharing menu to send the file to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- To email the file, tap your email app to create a new message with the PDF attached, type the recipient’s email address (or select a contact), and tap the Send button.
- To copy the file to your Google Drive, swipe left across the top row of icons, then tap Copy to Drive.
- To save the PDF to your phone or iCloud Drive, select Save to Files (in the bottom row of icons), tap iCloud Drive, select a folder (if desired), and tap Add.
Using the Print menu
- If you don’t see the PDF option in the previous method, start by tapping the document you want to convert.
- Ensure the Google Docs app is updated to the newest available version.
- Tap the ••• menu at the top-right corner.
- Tap Share & export towards the bottom of the menu.
- Tap Print. This opens iOS’ print preview.
- Tap the share icon (the rectangle with an arrow pointing up) in the top-right corner of the screen. The print menu will convert the document.
- Share the PDF, selecting from the same options as the initial conversion process.
- If you have AirDrop enabled, tap the device name at the top of the sharing menu.
- To email the PDF, tap your email app to create a new message, type the recipient’s email address, and tap Send.
- To copy to Google Drive, swipe left across the top row of icons, then tap Copy to Drive.
- To save to your phone or iCloud Drive, select Save to Files, tap iCloud Drive, select a folder, and tap Add.
Pro tip: If you’re frequently converting documents, consider using the desktop version of Google Docs for a faster workflow.
Converting documents to PDF format is essential for preserving the intended layout and design. This process can ensure that others view your work as you intended, free from unwanted formatting changes. Whether sharing for collaboration or submission, a PDF serves as a reliable format. Following these steps will make your document ready for any situation, enhancing your productivity.
