---
title: "How to set a Google Doc to View-Only mode"
description: "Set a Google Doc to View-Only mode by clicking Share > Change access > Anyone with the link > Viewer. This restricts editing access."
url: "https://www.clueso.io/tutorials/how-to-set-a-google-doc-to-view-only-mode"
updated: "2026-08-31T13:08:53.964Z"
---

# How to set a Google Doc to View-Only mode

Set a Google Doc to View-Only mode by clicking Share > Change access > Anyone with the link > Viewer. This restricts editing access.

In this article, you'll learn how to set your Google Doc to 'View only' format.

1. Start by clicking on the **Share** button located in the top right toolbar.

2. In the 'Journal Access' section, find the drop-down option on the right-hand side.

3. Select 'Viewer' as the role. Now, anyone with the link will only have 'View' access to your Google Doc.

![](https://d37f9k611f70xr.cloudfront.net/framer-1788181733248-vt3uq7twrit-UIBzT7SlmE5h4xcEm9bWu3qZiv8.png)

### **Frequently Asked Questions**

1. **What happens when I set my Google Doc to 'View only' format?**

When you set your Google Doc to 'View only' format, anyone with the link can only view the document. They won't be able to make any changes or edits.

2. **Can I change the access from 'View only' to 'Edit' later?**

Yes, you can change the access from 'View only' to 'Edit' at any time by going back to the 'Share' settings.

3. **Who can see my Google Doc when it's set to 'View only'?**

Anyone with the link can view your Google Doc when it's set to 'View only'. If you want to restrict access further, you can adjust the sharing settings.