I created my Game Manual layout using Google Docs—now I need guidance on layout software

Other Questions Google docs
1

Hello community,

I’ve been working on a game manual entirely in Google Docs, carefully arranging content with multiple columns and tables. I tried out several iterations—testing, tweaking, and testing again—to achieve a polished design. Despite my efforts, I keep hearing about professional layout tools like those from Adobe or Affinity, and I’m not sure how to translate my document into a print-ready format using those programs. Could someone provide a simple, step-by-step explanation in layman’s terms to help me navigate this process? I truly appreciate your assistance.

2

hey, try exportin your docs as pdf then open in indegin. you gotta redo some cols and tables but youtube tutos helped me a lot. good luck with the process!

3

I had to convert a similar document recently from Google Docs to a professional layout tool. I initially exported my document to PDF and then imported it into Adobe InDesign, only to realize that the formatting didn’t carry over as expected. My solution was to use the imported PDF as a blueprint while rebuilding the layout within InDesign. Although it was time-consuming, this method allowed me to regain full control over the design. I recommend experimenting with templates in InDesign to minimize some of the rework required.

4

During a similar project, I encountered challenges dealing with conversion from Google Docs to a dedicated layout application. My approach was to export my document as a PDF and then import it into Scribus, a free and powerful tool which, unlike the traditional methods, allowed me greater flexibility in adjusting the text flow and correcting column settings. Although it required some manual reformatting, planning ahead with a basic grid layout helped reduce the time spent on corrections. This method restored control over complex elements and enabled me to prepare a polished, print-ready manual.

5

hey, i switched to affinity publisher. i exported docs as pdf then manually fixed columns. its a bit tedous but way cheaper than indesign. works well once you get the hang of it. good luck!