QR Code Generator
Generate styled QR codes from text or URLs with a live preview, then insert into Docs™, Slides™, Sheets™, Forms™, or download as PNG.
Stop switching tabs to generate QR codes. With this tool, you can create fully customized, branded QR codes directly inside your document. Whether you need a simple link for a handout or a stylized code for a presentation, you can build it with a live preview.
How to Access#
Open the add-on sidebar and click on QR Code.
Note: This feature is available in Google Docs™, Google Slides™, Google Sheets™, and Google Forms™.
Step-by-Step Guide#
- Enter Content
Type the text or URL you want to link to.
- Tip: Use the Link Icon button to automatically paste the URL of your current Google document.
- Customize the Look
Adjust the colors, shapes, and logo settings. The Live Preview updates instantly so you can see your changes.
- Test It
Always scan the preview with your phone camera to ensure the code works before finalizing it.
- Insert or Download
- Insert: Places the image into your file (for example at the cursor in Docs, on the slide/sheet, or as a form image item in Forms).
- Download: Saves a high-quality PNG to your computer.
Smart Shortcuts#
Use these features to speed up your workflow:
🔗 Share Current Document#
Instead of manually copying your browser URL:
- Click the Link Icon (🔗) next to the input field.
- The tool automatically grabs the shareable link of your open Doc, Sheet, or Slide.
- A QR code is generated instantly.
Tip: Permissions Check: Before printing or distributing a QR code linked to a Google Drive file, ensure your Share settings are set to "Anyone with the link" or the specific audience you intend to reach.
↺ Edit Existing QR Codes#
Did you make a mistake on a QR code you already inserted? You don't have to start over.
- Select the QR code image inside your document.
- Click the Load Selected button (icon beside the preview).
- The add-on reads the metadata from the image and restores your previous settings (colors, data, logo) so you can make quick edits.
Customization Options#
Make your QR code stand out or match your company branding.
Basic Settings#
- Correction Level: Higher levels allow the code to be scanned even if partly damaged or covered by a logo, but the code will look more complex (denser).
- Size: Controls the resolution of the output image.
Style & Branding#
- Dots & Corners: Move away from the standard "blocky" look. Choose rounded dots or specific corner styles to make the code look modern.
- Colors: Change the dots and background color.
- Design Tip: Ensure there is high contrast between the dots (dark) and background (light) for reliable scanning.
- Logo: Upload your company logo or an icon to place in the center of the QR code.
Common Use Cases#
- Classroom Handouts (Docs): Add a QR code to the bottom of a printed worksheet that links to a helper video or the digital version of the assignment.
- Presentation Engagement (Slides): Place a large QR code on a slide to poll the audience, link to sources, or share your contact info.
- Inventory Management (Sheets): Generate codes for product SKUs and insert them next to inventory rows.
Related Teacher Guides#
- Safety Net for Lost Pages - How to add QR codes to handouts so students never lose the original digital doc.
- Link to Video Context - Embed QR codes linking to YouTube lessons directly in your teaching materials.