Google (English only) Docs is part of Google Workspace. Used by millions of people around the world, it allows users to create, synchronize and access documents on various devices. Over the years, Google has added several new features to the web platform. Even if you’ve been using Google Docs for a while now, there are some features you might not know about. In the list below, we’ll go through some underrated features that will make you more productive. and will save you time.
1. Write and send emails from Google Docs
You can directly send emails through Gmail without leaving Google Docs.
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This is a really useful tip if your job involves sending emails. To create and send emails from Google Docs, just click ‘Insert’ at the top of the screen, head to ‘Building Blocks’ and click ‘Draft Email’ and you will see a screen similar to Gmail’s compose window. It’s worth noting that text you type in Docs will be sent in the body of the email, not as an attachment.
2. Search for links using Google Docs
Whenever users want to hyperlink to any part of the text, they usually copy the link from the address bar and paste it into the hyperlink box. It can take a long time if you want to insert many links. To save time, you can let Google Docs do all the hard work. Just highlight the text you want to hyperlink and Docs will suggest a URL link. The feature comes in handy if you refer to brands or websites.
3. Insert images directly from Google search
On the right side, you can see the Google Images panel which lets you search for photos without leaving Docs.
The majority of users often end up downloading images from Google search and end up uploading them to Google Docs. If you’re in the same boat, you can simply search for images on Google by clicking the “Insert” drop-down menu and choosing the “Search the Web” option under the “Image” section. Keep in mind that some of these images may be copyrighted.
4. Voice input
If you are someone who uses the voice typing feature a lot, you will be glad to know that Google Docs has a built-in text-to-speech tool. It’s in the Tools drop-down menu. If you are lazy, just use CTRL+SHIFT+S shortcut. Keep in mind that the feature is only available for Chrome users.
5. Easily insert special characters
This is the Insert Special Characters menu in Google Docs.
Whenever users want to use special characters, they tend to copy them from website or text. But sometimes copying just isn’t possible. Luckily, Google Docs has a huge list of special characters that you can access by heading to the “Special Characters” button under the “Insert” menu.
6. Upload documents in different formats
Although Google Docs saves files in .docx by default, there are options to download documents in formats like .pdf, .txt, .epub and many more. It can be found in the ‘Download’ option under the ‘File’ menu.
7. Install extensions
Workspace Marketplace is Google Docs’ own extension marketplace.
Similar to extensions for internet browsers, Google Docs has a wide range of extensions available that will help you increase productivity. Just click on the Extensions drop-down menu and you’ll find the “Get Add-ons” button under the Add-ons menu.
8. Integration with Google Meet
Earlier this year, Google began rolling out Meet integration for Google Docs users. This allows users to easily join a meeting or initiate video calls directly from the app. To do this, just find the Meet button at the top of the page and you’ll have the option to start a meeting or join one.
9. Custom Shortcuts
Google Docs lets you create custom shortcuts in addition to predefined shortcuts.
Regular Google Docs users may be aware of the default keyboard shortcuts. That said, Google Docs lets you create your own shortcuts. To do this, simply head to the “Auto Substitute” option located under “Preferences” in the “Tools” menu.
10. Save to Google Keep
Did you know you can select text and save it to Keep as Notes? It’s really simple. Just choose the text you want to save as a note and right-click. You will see an option that says “Save to keep”. Click on it and the selected text will be automatically saved as a note in Google Keep.
We hope these simple tips and tricks will help increase your overall productivity and make your life easier.