The Presumptive Formatting
When creating data grids in Google Docs, the software utilizes a set of default table styling rules designed to mimic standard corporate reports. By default, whenever you insert a new table, Google Docs automatically designates the very top row as a “Header Row.” It applies bold formatting to the text entered there, often changes the background shading, and explicitly marks it in the underlying HTML for screen readers. While this is perfect for financial spreadsheets or data logs, it is highly frustrating if you are simply using the table structure for side-by-side layout purposes, such as comparing two images or creating a split-text column.
Stripping the Header Designation
To stop a table from treating its top row differently than the rest of the cells, you must dive into the specific properties of that individual table and strip away the header designation. Google Docs does not allow you to permanently turn this off globally for all future tables.
First, insert your table as you normally would. Once the table appears on your page, right-click anywhere inside the top row. From the context menu that appears, scroll down and select Table properties. A sidebar menu will slide open on the right side of your screen. Look for the section titled Row and click it to expand the options. You will see a checkbox labelled Pin header row(s) or simply Header row, depending on your exact version. Uncheck this box. The bold formatting and background shading will instantly vanish, and the top row will behave exactly like every other standard cell in your grid.