Google Docs

What is Google Docs?

Google Docs is a free, web-based application for creating, sharing, and managing documents or docs. All of your work is stored online and can be accessed from any computer with an Internet connection.

The types of files you can create and share are:

  • Docs- online word processor, similar to MS Word

  • Slides-Similar to MS PowerPoint

  • Sheets-Similar to MS Excel

  • Form- collecting and organizing data

  • Drawing- simple graphics or diagrams

Document

Easily create basic documents, including making bulleted lists, format text, insert images and links, add tables and charts, as well as setting margins. Working with a co-worker you can add or reply to comments, chat online, and watch what other are typing without refreshing the page.

Screenshot of a Google Doc header. The name of the doc (learning Google Docs) is at the top right. To the right of the name, there is a star icon and a folder icon, both in gray. On the top right, there is a bubble icon, a comments button, and a blue share button with a lock icon. Below that are the Google docs tools/page options.

To begin create a new blank document or choose from a template. Additionally, you can upload your existing files. Click on toolbar buttons to format text from the familiar desktop look.

  • Insert image by URL – Insert>Image>By URL and paste image link in text box

  • Comments – Comments button upper right; Tag individuals type @ or + sign and type name.

  • Share - Share button upper right or File> Share. Google Docs allows you to make a document visible to only a few people, and control how each person interacts with the document. To just share information internally, allow specific people to view your document and nothing more.

  • Email Collaborators – File>Email collaborators

  • Download Doc – PDF, Word Doc, and more. File> Download as

  • Version History – File> See Revision History

  • Remove Unwanted Formatting – Format>Clear formatting

  • Equation – Insert> Equation

  • Definitions, Synonyms, Famous Quotes– Tools> Research and/or Define

  • Voice Typing – Tools> Voice typing; “period” and “new line”

  • Translate whole doc – Tools> Translate document

  • Publish – File> Publish to the web

When using educational technology tools, be FERPA aware. To learn more, visit the Registrar's FERPA Guidelines site.