A running head is a brief title or header that appears at the top of each page in a document. It is commonly used in academic papers (such as APA-style research papers), professional reports, and formal documents to maintain consistency and improve readability.
Google Docs provides an easy way to insert and customize a running head. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you add, format, and manage a running head in your document.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Add a Running Head in Google Docs
Step 1: Open Your Google Docs Document
- Go to Google Docs.
- Open an existing document where you want to add the running head.
- If you don’t have a document yet, click “Blank Document” to create a new one.
Step 2: Access the Header Section
To insert a running head, you need to edit the header of your document. There are two ways to do this:
Method 1: Using the Insert Menu
- Click “Insert” in the top menu bar.
- Hover over “Headers & footers”, then select “Header”.
Method 2: Double-Clicking the Header Area
- Simply double-click the top margin of any page to open the header section.
Step 3: Type Your Running Head
- Once the header is open, type the text you want as your running head (e.g., a shortened version of your document title).
- Keep it concise (usually 50 characters or fewer for APA style).
Step 4: Customize the Running Head (Optional)
You can format the running head to match your document’s style:
- Change Font & Size: Highlight the text and select a font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial) and size (usually 12pt).
- Alignment: Adjust alignment (left, center, or right) using the toolbar.
- Bold/Italics: Apply formatting if needed.
Step 5: Different First Page (For APA & Formal Styles)
Some formats (like APA) require a different first-page header:
- While in the header, check the box labeled “Different first page”.
- On the first page, type “Running head: SHORTENED TITLE” (for APA).
- On subsequent pages, only include the SHORTENED TITLE (without “Running head:”).
Step 6: Add Page Numbers (If Required)
Many academic papers require page numbers along with the running head. Here’s how to add them:
- Click “Insert” → “Page numbers”.
- Choose a position (usually top-right).
- Page numbers will appear in the header alongside your running head.
Step 7: Finalize & Save
- Review your document to ensure the running head appears correctly on all pages.
- Click “File” → “Download” to save in your preferred format (PDF, Word, etc.).
- Alternatively, your document will auto-save in Google Drive.
Also read How to Delete a Section Break in Google Docs
FAQs
Q. Can I have different running heads on different pages?
- Yes, but with limitations.
- Use “Different first page” to change the first-page header.
- For more variations, insert section breaks (Insert → Break → Section break), then modify headers per section.
Q. How do I remove a running head?
- Double-click the header, delete the text, and click outside the header to exit.
Q. Can I change the font and size of the running head?
- Yes, highlight the header text and use the formatting toolbar to adjust font, size, color, etc.
Q. Is a running head the same as a header?
- Not exactly.
- A running head is a specific type of header, usually a shortened title.
- A header can include additional elements like page numbers, author names, or dates.
Q. Does Google Docs automatically update the running head on all pages?
- Yes, once you add text to the header, it appears on every page unless you use “Different first page” or section breaks.
Conclusion
Adding a running head in Google Docs is a simple yet essential skill for academic and professional writing. By following these steps, you can ensure your document meets formatting standards while maintaining a polished appearance. Whether you’re following APA guidelines or just need a consistent header, Google Docs makes the process quick and easy.