Google Docs is a word processor similar to Microsoft Word templates, but it operates in the cloud without requiring any software installation on your computer.
The demand for secure and efficient collaborative tools has grown with the rise of remote work.
Since 2016, Google Docs has surpassed Word in popularity for collaborative work among users.
Why and how should we utilize the top features of this app for writing and document creation?
What exactly is Google Docs?
Google Docs, also known as Documents, is included in Workspace, a complimentary productivity software suite provided by Google.
You can use the app to compose and revise text, as well as generate various documents such as resumes, business proposals, and reports from available templates.
Since it is stored in the cloud, you do not need to be concerned about manually saving your text.
You are unlikely to lose work that you have spent hours on due to forgetting to save or experiencing power loss issues.
Additionally, you have the option to collaborate on your project with other contributors and make real-time edits to the document with anyone who is online.
Using Google Docs for free – instructions.
To begin using Google Docs for free, you just need a Gmail account.
Shortly after, you will be able to visit the https://docs.google URL, sign in with your account details.
You can access Google Documents directly from your Gmail inbox.
Click the icon located on the left side of your photo, in the upper right corner of the browser.
You can also generate a document in Google Drive by selecting the “New” button followed by “Google Documents”.
Easy, right?
Can Google Docs be downloaded?
Agreed!
Docs offers a program known as Google Documents, enabling users to collaboratively access and modify online files in real-time.
The app has a 4.8 rating and is accessible on Android and IOS, occupying minimal space on your device.
With the mobile app installed, you can access and edit your documents online or offline from anywhere by opening the document links.
Is Google Docs able to work with Microsoft Word?
Affirmative!
You can view Word documents in Google Docs and save them in .docx format, which is compatible with Microsoft software.
Shortly after, it is already feasible to access the identical file in Word without any issues.
Google Docs offers options to save the file in various formats such as .pdf, .odt, .txt, .html, and .epub.
Click on “file” in the toolbar, then select “download” to save and convert the document into your preferred format.
5 helpful features in Google Docs for businesses
Now that you have a grasp of the fundamentals of Google Docs, let’s delve further and explore some beneficial tool functionalities.
1. Make lists of tasks
To begin making your own task lists, simply use square brackets [] and press the space bar.
Shortly after, a completely interactive checkbox will be displayed.
If you wish to view the menu, you can find checklists under Format > Markers and numbering > Checklist.
2. Add unique symbols.
Google Docs provides a convenient tool for inserting special characters, like unique letters or symbols, into your document.
To open the Special characters dialog box in Google Docs, create a new document and select Insert from the top menu.
Choose Special Characters from the dropdown menu.
3. Include additional references
Occasionally, you might require a font that is not included in the app’s initial selection.
However, this is not an issue when utilizing Google Documents.
If the long list of pre-installed fonts is not sufficient, you have the option to include additional ones.
Click on the font name in the top toolbar and choose “More Sources” from the drop-down menu.
4. Speaking into a device to input text.
Google’s voice typing feature in Docs may not be well-known, but it is easy to use.
You can input text in the document by dictating it, without needing to use the keyboard.
To utilize voice typing, simply open a new Google Docs file and select Tools from the upper menu.
Select Voice typing from the menu.
To begin dictating, you can either click the microphone symbol on the displayed toolbar or use the shortcut Ctrl + Shift + S (Cmd + Shift + S on a Mac).
Generate tables using pre-designed formats.
Making a basic table on Google Docs is straightforward. Select the desired number of rows and columns, and you’re good to go.
Google has included several beneficial templates for users to explore.
- A plan for a product’s development.
- A list of project resources.
- A table used for managing revisions.
- Initiate content control.
To make your own, click on Insert, then Table, and finally Table Templates.
Using Google Docs in the company is a beneficial choice.
Using Google Docs as the primary tool for document creation and editing in your workplace comes with its benefits.
In addition to the examples previously mentioned, we can also include:
- Users have the ability to work on documents without an internet connection thanks to offline access.
- The application can effortlessly connect with other Google tools like Google Drive, Google Sheets, and Google Slides.
- You can keep a record of all modifications made in a document to show users the changes made and when they occurred.
- Users have the ability to provide comments and suggestions on documents, enabling the team to easily exchange feedback and ideas.
Begin utilizing Google Docs through Hostbits!
We can assist you in utilizing all the features and benefits of Google Docs for your business.
Hostbits is an authorized Workspace partner, allowing users to access the paid version of the tool through them and gain additional features such as increased Drive space.
Additionally, using Google Workspace allows you to utilize various collaboration tools like Google Sheets, Slides, Docs, and Keep.
Click on the banner below to discover more and begin working online and collaboratively this year!
