How to Create a Book Template in Google Docs? [A 2025 Guide]

If you’re an aspiring author, self-publisher, or entrepreneur looking to format your book professionally, Google Docs is a fantastic free tool to get started.

With its cloud-based functionality and easy-to-use features, you can create a well-structured book template without needing expensive software like Microsoft Word or Adobe InDesign.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a book template in Google Docs, including page setup, formatting, adding a table of contents, and ensuring your book looks polished for publishing.

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Why Use Google Docs for Book Formatting?

Google Docs is a popular choice for book formatting due to its accessibility and simplicity. Here are some key reasons why you should consider using it:

✅ Free to Use – Unlike premium writing software, Google Docs is free and offers essential formatting tools.
✅ Cloud-Based – You can access and edit your book from anywhere with an internet connection.
✅ Collaboration Features – Google Docs allows multiple people to edit and comment on the document in real time.
✅ Easy Export Options – You can export your book in PDF, EPUB, or Word format for further publishing.

Now, let’s dive into how to create a book template in Google Docs.

Step 1: Set Up Your Page Layout

A well-formatted book requires proper page setup, including margins, orientation, and spacing.

Follow these steps to get started:

1. Open Google Docs and create a new document.
2. Click on File → Page Setup.
3. Set the Page Orientation to Portrait (most books use portrait mode).
4. Adjust the Margins:

• Standard books: 1-inch margins on all sides.
• If using a binding format, set Margins (Left: 1.5 inches, Right: 1 inch).

Set the Page Size:

• For ebooks: Standard 8.5 x 11 inches (letter size) or 6 x 9 inches.
• For print books: Choose 6 x 9 inches or 5.5 x 8.5 inches (Amazon KDP format).

Click OK to apply the changes.

Step 2: Choose and Set Your Font Style

The font you choose impacts readability and professionalism.

Stick to professional and readable fonts:

To set your font:

1. Click on Format → Paragraph Styles → Normal Text.
2. Select your font and size.
3. Click Apply to all to ensure uniform formatting.

Step 3: Create and Apply Headings

For a structured book layout, use Headings for different sections.

• Title of the Book – Use Heading 1
• Chapters – Use Heading 2
• Subsections – Use Heading 3

To apply headings:

1. Select the text you want as a heading.
2. Click on Styles (Dropdown at the top-left corner) → Choose Heading 1, 2, or 3.
3. Click Apply to format it properly.

Using headings also helps in creating a Table of Contents (TOC) automatically!

Step 4: Insert Page Numbers and Headers/Footers

To make your book organized and professional, add page numbers, headers, and footers.

Adding Page Numbers:

1. Click on Insert → Page Numbers.
2. Choose the bottom-right or center for a clean layout.

Adding Headers & Footers:

1. Click on Insert → Header & Footer.
2. Add the book title or chapter name in the header.
3. Keep the footer empty or add the copyright year.

Step 5: Set Line Spacing and Paragraph Indentation

For better readability, adjust line spacing and paragraph indentations:

1. Click on Format → Line & Paragraph Spacing → 1.5 or 2.0.
2. To indent the first line of each paragraph:

• Click on Format → Align & Indent → Indentation Options.
• Under First Line Indent, set it to 0.5 inches.

Step 6: Insert a Table of Contents (TOC)

A Table of Contents (TOC) helps readers navigate your book.

To insert a TOC:

1. Place your cursor where you want the TOC (usually after the title page).
2. Click on Insert → Table of Contents.
3. Choose the linked version for digital books or the plain-text version for print books.

Step 7: Add Chapter Titles and Sections

Each chapter should start on a new page. To do this:

• Place your cursor before the chapter title.
• Click Insert → Break → Page Break.
• Use Heading 2 for Chapter Titles to maintain consistency.

Step 8: Add Images and Illustrations (Optional)

If your book includes illustrations or images, insert them properly:

Step 9: Save and Export Your Book Template

Once your template is complete, save it for future use.

To save it as a template:

To export for publishing:

Wrapping Up

Creating a book template in Google Docs is simple and efficient. By following this guide, you’ll have a well-structured, formatted book that’s ready for writing, editing, and publishing.

Whether you’re working on an ebook, novel, or a non-fiction book, this free tool can help you get started without additional costs.

✅ Need a ready-made book template for Google Docs? Let me know in the comments, and I can provide one!

Happy Writing! ✍️📖