Alternating Colors in Google Docs Table (How to Set Up in 2024)

In this article, we will show you exactly how to set up alternating colors in Google Docs table in just a few simple steps. Simply follow the steps below.

google docs table alternating colors

Google Docs Table With Alternating Colors

Follow the steps below to set up a table with alternating colors in Google Docs.

1. Insert a Table into Your Document

Determine where in your document you want to insert the table. Once you’ve found the desired location, click on “Insert.”

google docs alternating colors table

Then, hover over “Table.” A grid will appear.

alternating colors table google docs

Select the size of the table you need by dragging your mouse over the grid to insert it into your document.

2. Enter Your Data into the Table Cells

Click on each cell in the table to enter your data.

Type in the information you want for each row and column. Make sure all the data is correctly placed within the table.

3. Highlight the Entire Table Then Right-Click

Click and drag your cursor to highlight the entire table. Then, right-click on the highlighted area to access formatting options.

4. Select Table Properties

From the menu that appears, select “Table properties.” This action will open a new window with various options for customizing your table’s appearance.

5. Access Background Color Options

In the properties window, click on “Color,” then select “Cell background color.” This will allow you to modify the background color of the entire table as well as individual cells.

6. Choose a Color for the Table

Select one color you want to use as a pair for the alternating colors in your table. Consider choosing a color that complements the other colors you plan to use for a cohesive look.

7. Change the Background Color of the First Row

Select the first row of your table. With the “Table properties” window still open on the right side, click on “Cell background color.” Choose a different color for this row to start your alternating color pattern.

8. Apply the Same Color to the Alternating Rows

Continue by selecting the next alternate row you want to color (such as the 3rd row in this example). With the “Table properties” window still open, click on “Cell background color” and choose the same color as the one selected for the first row to maintain the alternating pattern.

Continue repeating this process for the rest of the alternating rows, such as the 5th, 7th, and so on, ensuring each selected row matches the color of the first row.


We hope that you now have a better understanding of how to make a table with alternating colors in Google Docs. If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our articles on how to make an APA style table in Google Docs and how to sort tables alphabetically in Google Docs.

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