4 Quick Tips for Getting Started

Find images with transparent backgrounds

By adding "png" to your image search text, you can find images that do not have a box around them. You can also choose to add "transparent background" if "png" is not loading any results.

Customize the size of your Google Drawing

Choose "File" and "Page Setup." Click on "Standard" and choose "Custom." Here you can adjust the starting size of your drawing by inches, centimeters, points or pixels. If you want a high-resolution image at the end of your project, I'd recommend clicking "Pixels" and then doubling or tripling the number in each box. That way, your image will look the same on your screen but the detail will be much greater.

Add a text box for directions

If you add a shape or text box to the left or right of your template, you have a great space for adding directions right on a student's screen. That way, students don't have to click away from their work to see what is expected of them and it saves you a trip to the copy room!

Change the coloring or transparency of an image

You can make an image appear older, or choose a different shading for any image added in Google Drawings. Students can adjust the image of their choice by selecting the image, clicking "Image Options" from the toolbar and choosing their desired option under "Recolor." They can also adjust the image transparency in the same menu.

Basic Elements of Google Drawing

Searching for Images in Google Drawing

How to Export or Distribute Drawings

How to use Google Drawings with Google Slides

How to Insert a Video into a Google Drawing