How to Copy and Paste on Android

This article explains how to copy and paste on Android devices. Additional information covers how to cut and paste on Android. Instructions apply to any Android device regardless of manufacturer.

Copy and Paste General Text

To copy a word, sentence, paragraph, or another block of text from a web page, message, or other source:

1. Tap and hold a word in the section you want to copy. The text is highlighted and handles appear on each side. 

2. Drag the handles to highlight the text you want to copy. 

3. In the menu above the highlighted text, tap Copy. 

4. Go to the application where you want to paste the copied text, such as a messenger or email app. Then, open the email, message, or document where you want to paste the text. 

5. Tap and hold the text field where you want to paste the text. 

6. In the menu that appears, tap Paste to paste the text.

Copy and Paste a Website Link

To copy the address of a website on an Android device:

1. Open a web browser and go to the website.

2. Go to the address bar, then tap and hold the web address.

3. In the menu that appears, tap Copy Address.  

4. Open the application where you want to paste the copied link, such as a messenger or email app. Then, open the email, message, or document where you want to place the copied link. 

5. Tap and hold the text field where you want to paste the link. 

6. In the menu that appears, tap Paste.

Copy and Paste Special Characters

To copy and paste a symbol or other special character, it must be text-based. If it's an image, it cannot be copied. 

CopyPasteCharacter.com is a useful resource for symbols and special characters. Copy and paste these characters using the same method used to copy and paste text.

Cut and Paste on Android

The Cut option only appears in the popup menu if you select text you are typing or editing, such as in an email or message.

To cut text:

1. Tap and hold a word in the section you want to cut. The word is highlighted and two handles appear on each side. 

2. Drag the handles to highlight the text you want to cut. 

3. In the menu that appears, tap Cut. 

4. Open the message, email, or document where you want to paste the cut text. 

5. Tap and hold the text field where you want to paste the text. 

6. In the menu that appears, tap Paste.

Why Am I Unable to Copy?

Not all apps support copying and pasting text. If the app has a web-based version, such as Facebook or Twitter, access the app through a mobile browser instead.