The 8 Best Features of Google Docs for Writers
Ready to upgrade from paper and pen? For writers, finding a tech tool that delivers a seamless writing experience with all the benefits of an app can be hard to do. Luckily, there’s Google Docs, an excellent tool for beginner writers and seasoned pros alike.
To get started with Google Docs, all you have to do is open the app on your desktop or mobile device, start a new document, and get to writing. Yet, if you want to take your writing experience to the next level, you’ll want to try these hacks. 1. Full Screen View for Distraction-Free Writing
One of the downsides of using an app for writing is the ever-present distraction of the various menus and toolbars in your view. For an experience that mimics traditional paper, you can try Full Screen View.
To access full screen view, simply select View in the toolbar and then Full Screen . This view removes all the toolbars and menus from the top of your document. To show those options again, simply press your Esc key. 2. Table of Contents Tool for Organizing Documents
Some documents, such as ebooks and whitepapers need a table of contents, so readers can find the chapter or section they’re looking for quickly. The Table of Contents tools makes this super easy.
To create a table of contents, select Insert from the toolbar and then Table of Contents . Choose whether you want page numbers or blue links. Then, continue on with your document.
As you add headers, Google Docs will generate an entry in your table of contents, complete with page numbers. If you choose blue links, when clicked, the links will take you to that section of your document. 3. Add-Ons for Grammar Checks & More
Google Docs allows you to use a variety of add-ons to make document creation simpler. Some of the helpful selections for writers include: ProWritingAid for checking your grammar and spelling.
Track My Words for tracking how many words you write each day and your WPM rate.
EasyBib for easy and automatic citation.
To find and download add-ons for Google Docs:
> Select the Add-Ons option in the toolbar, then Get Add-Ons .
Search for the add-on you wish to download and select it. Select Download and then Continue . Once the add-on is installed, you’ll need to close and open Google Docs back up. Then, you’ll be able to use your new tool. 4. Voice Typing for Easier Thought Processing Some writers use voice recordings to capture their thoughts and ideas prior to writing. You can do the same with the Voice Typing feature inside Google Docs.To access the feature: > Select Tools in the menu and then Voice Typing . Click the Microphone button and start speaking. To stop the recording, click the Red Microphone button. Google Docs will transcribe your words into your document. It’s important to note that you’ll need to be using the Google Chrome browser for this […]
