How to Stop Google Docs from Automatically Substitutions (Replacing Text)

The Frustration of Auto-Correction

Google Docs includes a powerful “Substitutions” feature designed to speed up typing. By default, it automatically converts specific character combinations into mathematical symbols or fractions (e.g., typing 1/2 automatically converts into the single fraction character ½, or typing (c) converts to the copyright symbol ©). It also allows you to define your own custom text shortcuts.

However, if you are a programmer writing a technical guide, or a mathematician who specifically needs the raw text characters, this automatic replacement is incredibly frustrating. If you type a specific equation and Docs instantly morphs it into a different symbol, you have to hit backspace to undo the correction constantly. To maintain complete control over exactly what characters appear on the page, you must disable automatic substitutions.

How to Turn Off Automatic Text Substitutions

You can disable all text replacements in the Preferences menu.

1. Open a document in Google Docs.
2. Click on the Tools tab in the top menu bar.
3. Select Preferences from the dropdown list.
4. In the Preferences window, click on the Substitutions tab at the top.
5. At the very top of this tab, look for the main checkbox labelled Automatic substitution.
6. Uncheck the box.
7. (Note: Unchecking this master switch disables all the individual substitutions listed below it, so you don’t need to uncheck them one by one).
8. Click the blue OK button to save your changes.

Google Docs will now respect your exact keystrokes. Typing (c) will remain exactly as you typed it, and fractions will stay as standard numbers and slashes, giving you precise control over your document’s formatting.