Google Docs is an alternative to Microsoft Word. We have been using Word for 25000 years or so, but there are many advantages to using Google Docs:
*Note: Voice typing is only available in Chrome browsers.
Click the speech bubble next to the colourful squares at the top right to get started.
- Access - documents are stored in the cloud and are accessible from any device
- Saving - a Google Doc saves every time you make a change meaning you will never lose your work if you don't save. Even if your computer dies, the file is still safe online.
- Collaboration - you can work with people on a document and changes are made on the one document. No need to email files.
- Sharing - sharing files with one, two or 2000 people is easy. Just get the link for the document and that is how people can access the doc. Again, no need to email a document and in the case of Word, no worry that they have the same version of the software installed on their computer so it looks the same.
- Space - the amount of space Microsoft files take up, including the programs themselves, grows and grows over the years. Google Docs take up no space, zero bytes, on your computer. They live online which makes them nimble too!
- Cost - Microsoft Office is expensive and every update sets you back another $150 or so. Google Apps are free. Much cheaper!!
If you have not used Google Docs, give it a go. The interface is MUCH simpler and cleaner, but it has 99% of what every Word user needs + more.
Next time you go to open a Word document, see if a Google Doc can get the same job done.
Here are a few tips with animations so you can see how they work
Changing Fonts
Move over Times New Roman! Transform your Google Doc by swapping in new fonts. Select from the drop-down menu for preset fonts.
Adding New Fonts
In addition to the default fonts in the drop-down menu, you can explore even more under the “More fonts…” option. Browse by serif, sans serif, handwriting, and other styles, or search for a specific font.
Inserting Hyperlinks
Create a “HyperDoc” by linking to outside sources directly in your Google Doc. Just highlight text, and select Insert > Link.Inserting Images
With over 50,000 clip art items and icons that are licensed for free use, adding images is a great way to add some personality to a document. Select Insert > Image > Search to get started.Add Custom Drawings
Use Google Docs to show off your writing and artistic skills. Embed a digital drawing by selecting Insert > Drawing.Zooming In and Out
Adjust the zoom setting of a document using the drop-down menu to the left of the font menu. The higher the percent, the larger the text appears on the screen.Using Special Characters
You can insert special characters, including Greek letters, arrows, and shapes, into a Google Doc–just select Insert > Ω Special characters to begin. Browse via the menus, search for keywords, or draw what you’re looking for!Adding Page Numbers
Easily add page numbers using Insert > Page number, and selecting the preferred formatting style (top or bottom of page, etc.).Header and Footer
If you want to add items such as footnotes, titles, or running headers to all of the pages in your document, you can add headers and footers by selecting Insert > Header or Footer.Creating a Table of Contents
Lab report? Creative writing project? Easily add a table of contents using the Table of Contents Google Docs Add-on (many users find it easier than the default one available in Google Docs).Changing Bullet Points
Bored of the simple circle bullet point? Use the icon menu to adjust to preset styles. To add a unique bullet point, highlight your list and select Format > Lists > List options > More bullets… to insert a special character.Voice Typing
A new introduction to Google Docs, voice typing uses your computer’s microphone to transcribe audio. Voice typing requires you to speak words to add punctuation like “period” and “question mark.” Select Tools > Voice typing…to get set up.*Note: Voice typing is only available in Chrome browsers.
Line Spacing
Need to make that paper double-spaced? Adjust the line spacing by highlighting text and using the line spacing icon (to the left of the numbered bullet point icon), or selecting Format > Line spacing.Convert a Google Doc to PDF
Using a technology that doesn’t play nice with Google Doc or .docx files? Keep your formatting stable by saving documents as PDFs. Simply select File > Download as… > PDF Document (.pdf).Chat and Real-time Collaboration
When you’re working on a file at the same time as others, you can chat with the group in real time.Click the speech bubble next to the colourful squares at the top right to get started.
Installing Add-ons
To install an Add-on, just click the “Add-on” menu along the top toolbar, and select Get Add-ons. Browse or search for the Add-on you wish to install, and approve the permissions. (Different Add-ons require different permissions from you to work properly, and you will need to approve them.) You can turn Add-ons on and off from the Add-on menu.