WordPress Tutorial: How to Replace Google Doc Embedder

Embedding Google Docs into your WordPress site can be a great way to display documents directly within your content. However, the Google Doc Embedder plugin is no longer actively maintained, so you may run into compatibility issues, security vulnerabilities, or a lack of support. Luckily, there are other ways to embed Google Docs without using Google Doc Embedder. Here’s how to replace it with simpler and more flexible solutions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Google Doc Embedder

Step 1: Use the "Embed Code" from Google Docs

1. Open the Google Doc you want to embed.
2. Click on "File" > "Share" and select "Publish to the web."
3. Under "Link," select "Embed" and click "Publish."
4. Copy the embed code that appears in the dialog box.
5. Go to your WordPress post or page editor, and switch to the HTML editor.
6. Paste the embed code directly into the HTML where you want the document to appear.

This method allows your Google Doc to display on your site without additional plugins and offers control over the display.

Step 2: Use the iFrame Method

If you need additional customization or if you’re working in WordPress’s block editor (Gutenberg), using an iFrame may be a good alternative.

1. Go to the Google Doc you want to embed.
2. Select "File" > "Publish to the web." Choose the "Link" option if "Embed" isn’t available.
3. Copy the link provided.
4. Go to your WordPress page or post editor and use the Custom HTML block in Gutenberg.

Enter the following HTML, replacing YOUR_GOOGLE_DOC_URL with the link:
html
<iframe src="YOUR_GOOGLE_DOC_URL" width="100%" height="600" frameborder="0"></iframe>

2. Publish the page to view your embedded Google Doc.

Step 3: Use the Google Drive Embedder Plugin

For users who prefer a plugin, Google Drive Embedder is an excellent alternative.

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard and select Plugins > Add New.
2. Search for Google Drive Embedder and click Install.
3. Activate the plugin and follow the setup wizard to connect your Google account.
4. In your post editor, you’ll now see an "Add Google Doc" option, allowing you to embed documents easily.

This plugin allows you to access documents directly from Google Drive, offering ease of use and flexibility without requiring custom code.

Step 4: Use a Plugin like EmbedPress

EmbedPress supports embedding content from over 75 sources, including Google Docs.

1. Go to Plugins > Add New and search for EmbedPress.
2. Install and activate EmbedPress.
3. In the editor, paste your Google Docs link into a post or page, and EmbedPress will automatically transform it into an embedded document.

FAQs

Q1: Why should I replace Google Doc Embedder?
A: Google Doc Embedder is no longer maintained, making it vulnerable to compatibility and security issues. Newer alternatives provide better support and functionality.

Q2: Can I embed other Google content like Sheets or Slides?
A: Yes, most of the methods above support Google Sheets, Slides, and other Google Drive content. Simply select the specific content you want to embed.

Q3: Will the embedded document update automatically?
A: Yes, the embedded document reflects live changes if you use Google’s embed code or iFrame method, so you don’t have to re-embed it after edits.

Q4: Is it necessary to use plugins to embed Google Docs?
A: No, using the embed code or iFrame method works well without plugins. Plugins offer convenience but are not required.