Google Docs is an incredibly useful free online document editing tool. With its user-friendly interface and powerful collaboration features, Google Docs has become an essential productivity tool for many.
Whether you use it for work, school, or personal projects, there are many helpful tips and tricks that can take your Google Docs skills to the next level.
In this article, we will cover some of the top Google Docs tips and tricks that everyone should know. Learning these tips can save you time, boost productivity, and help you create professional-looking documents with ease.
Format Text Like a Pro
The text formatting options in Google Docs allow you to customize the appearance of text in your documents. Here are some formatting tips you should know:
Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Rather than clicking formatting buttons, use these handy keyboard shortcuts:
- Bold – Ctrl/⌘ + B
- Italics – Ctrl/⌘ + I
- Underline – Ctrl/⌘ + U
Clear Formatting
Accidentally formatted something incorrectly? Simply highlight the text and click “Clear formatting” in the toolbar to remove all text formatting.
Strikethrough and Small Caps
Apply strikethrough formatting to text by going to Format > Text > Strikethrough. You can also format text in small caps this way.
Superscript and Subscript
Format text as superscript or subscript by going to Format > Text and selecting the option. This is perfect for mathematical or chemical formulas.
Enhance Documents Visually
Making your documents look polished and professional is easy with these Google Docs tricks:
Add Page Numbers
Insert page numbers by clicking Insert > Page numbers. Choose a style and placement for a clean, finished look.
Insert Images
Jazz up your documents by inserting images. Click Insert > Image, then upload or search for the perfect picture.
Use Columns
Mimic the look of a newspaper or magazine article by going to Format > Columns and selecting the number and width of columns desired.
Add Tables
Organize information clearly by inserting a table. Click Table > Insert table and customize the rows and columns.
Boost Productivity
Work smarter and faster with these handy Google Docs productivity tips:
Save to the Cloud
Google Docs automatically saves your work continuously so you’ll never lose progress. You can access saved Docs from any device.
Check Word Count
See your document’s word count as you type by going to Tools > Word count. No need to highlight everything first.
Use Voice Typing
Speed up drafting by dictating text instead of typing. Go to Tools > Voice typing and start talking!
Install Add-ons
Add functionality with free add-ons like EasyBib, Grammarly, Table of Contents, and more. Click Add-ons > Get add-ons to browse options.
Enhance Collaboration
Google Docs shines when it comes to real-time collaboration. Use these tips for seamless teamwork:
Share and Edit Simultaneously
Invite others to view or edit a Doc just by entering their email address. Multiple people can work on the same document at once.
Comment and Suggest Changes
Click Comment in the toolbar to leave notes for collaborators without editing the document itself. Others can reply to create a threaded conversation.
Use Version History
Accidentally delete something important? Restore an earlier version by clicking File > Version history > See version history.
Work Offline
Need to edit a shared Doc without internet access? Click File > Work offline to keep making changes. The Doc will sync automatically when you reconnect.
Customize Google Docs
Make Google Docs work better for you with these personalization tips:
Create Templates
Design a custom template for documents you make regularly, like reports or letters. Other files can then use this as a starting point.
Set Default Font and Margins
Stop manually updating fonts and margins each time. Just set your preferred defaults under File > Page setup.
Add Custom Dictionary Words
Add acronyms, names, or industry-specific terms to your dictionary so Google Docs recognizes them as correct. Click Tools > Personal dictionary.
Adjust Table of Contents Settings
Tweak the Table of contents settings to fit your formatting needs. Click Tools > Preferences > Table of contents.
Knowing these Google Docs tips and tricks can save you tons of time and effort. Implement just a few to see your productivity and document quality improve right away.
What are your favorite Google Docs features? Share in the comments!
