Converting Google Docs to the EPUB ebook format allows you to create ebooks that are compatible with a wide variety of e-readers and apps. EPUB format provides readers more control over how content is displayed, making it easier to read on different devices.
Why Convert Google Docs to EPUB
Here are some of the main benefits of converting Google Docs to EPUB:
- Compatibility – The EPUB format is supported by most e-readers, tablets, smartphones and e-reader apps except for Amazon Kindle (use MOBI for Kindle).
- Reflowable Text – EPUB format automatically adjusts text to fit different screen sizes. Text can reflow based on the reader’s chosen font size and margins.
- Customization – Readers can customize how the EPUB ebook looks by changing font, font size, margins and more to suit their reading preference.
- Portability – EPUB files are lightweight, easy to share and store. You can access them across devices.
- Accessibility – EPUB supports accessible features for vision-impaired readers like adjustable fonts, night mode, text-to-speech etc.
How to Convert Google Docs to EPUB
Converting a Google Docs file to EPUB only takes a few simple steps:
1. Open the Google Doc
Go to Google Docs and open the document you want to convert to EPUB format.
2. Click on File > Download > EPUB Publication
In Google Docs editor, select File > Download > EPUB Publication (.epub).
3. Save the Exported EPUB File
Your browser will automatically download the Google Doc as an EPUB ebook file. Save this EPUB file on your computer.
That’s it! Your Google Doc file is now converted and saved as a .epub ebook file.
Tips for Formatting Google Docs for EPUB Conversion
Follow these tips to properly format your Google Doc before converting to EPUB format:
- Use Headings to structure sections and chapters
- Add Page Breaks between chapters
- Use a single standard font like Times New Roman
- Set line spacing to 1.0 or 1.15
- Align text left and do NOT justify text
- Only use basic text formatting like bold, italics and highlights
- Simplify styling as much as possible
- Insert images inline with text
- Check formatting on a mobile screen before converting
How to Edit or Customize an EPUB eBook
If you want to edit, customize or validate your converted EPUB ebook, you can use free EPUB editing tools:
Sigil Ebook Editor
Sigil is a popular free, open source EPUB ebook editor for Windows, Mac and Linux. It allows you to directly edit EPUB files by editing XHTML/HTML, CSS stylesheets and metadata.
Calibre Ebook Editor
Calibre is another free and open source ebook library manager and converter for Windows, Mac and Linux. The Editor allows you to edit EPUBs including text, images, metadata etc. and preview your ebooks.
Online EPUB Validators
Use a free online EPUB validator to validate your EPUB file and check for any formatting errors before distribution.
How to Read EPUB eBooks
EPUB files can be read on:
- PCs/Laptops – Use free software like Calibre, Adobe Digital Editions or Firefox/Chrome with EPUBReader extension
- eReaders – All e-readers support EPUB except Amazon Kindle.
- Tablets/Phones – EPUB files can be read on iOS, Android smartphones and tablets using e-reader apps like Google Play Books, iBooks, Kobo etc.
- Web Browser – Many modern web browsers like Firefox and Chrome support reading EPUB ebooks with extensions.
So with just a few clicks, you can easily convert your Google Doc files into reflowable and customizable EPUB ebooks compatible with a wide range of devices and apps!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert Google Docs to Kindle Format?
Google Docs can be converted to MOBI format which is supported by Amazon Kindle e-readers. Simply choose MOBI as the download format instead of EPUB. Or you can use a free online converter tool to convert from EPUB to MOBI format after creating the EPUB file.
How do I create fixed layout EPUBs from Google Docs?
Google Docs only creates reflowable EPUB ebooks where text can adjust based on font size and screen. To create fixed layout EPUBs where images, text and layout remain static, you would need to use professional desktop publishing software like Adobe InDesign.
What’s the difference between EPUB 2 and EPUB 3 formats?
EPUB 3 format is the latest version with added support for rich media like audio, video, javascript, interactive images etc. EPUB 2 only supports basic text, images and multimedia embedding. EPUB 3 has better support for math formulas and right-to-left languages as well.
Can I sell my EPUB ebooks?
Yes, EPUB is a standard ebook format that you can sell through major ebook distributors and retailers like Amazon, Google Play, Kobo, Apple Books etc. You can use ebook publishing platforms like Draft2Digital or Smashwords to publish and sell your EPUB ebooks globally.
How do I add DRM copy protection to my EPUB ebooks?
To prevent unauthorized copying or distribution of your EPUB ebooks, you can add DRM (Digital Rights Management) copy protection. This encrypts the EPUB so it can only be read by approved apps and devices. Publishing platforms like Draft2Digital, Smashwords and ebook distributors offer DRM options.
