Schedule Automatic PDF Exports from Google Docs
Scheduling automatic PDF exports on a fixed interval is one of the most common automation requests for Google Docs. Apps Script makes this possible with a time-based trigger that runs a function at any interval you configure.
Setting up a time-based trigger
Open Google Apps Script at script.google.com. Write a function that exports your target document and saves the PDF. In the Triggers panel, create a new trigger for this function and set the time interval: daily, weekly, monthly, or custom. The trigger runs automatically at the specified time.
Daily export workflow
A daily export is useful for documents that update frequently, such as project trackers, dashboards, or live reports. Set the trigger to run each night after the last update of the day. The PDF reflects the end-of-day state of the document.
Weekly export workflow
Weekly exports work well for reports, status updates, and documents that are reviewed on a fixed cycle. Set the trigger for early Monday morning so the PDF of the previous week's document is ready when the team starts work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set up a daily automatic PDF export from a Google Doc?
Write an Apps Script that exports the document and saves the PDF. Create a daily time-based trigger for the function.
Does the scheduled export require me to be logged in?
No. Time-based triggers run on Google's servers under your account. Your computer does not need to be on or logged in.
Ready to Try It?
Install the free Chrome extension and start converting your Google Docs to PDF in one click.
Install Free Extension