Thread by @dickiebush

If you use Google Docs, you're one of G Suite's 2,000,000,000 monthly active users.

But you probably aren't using it to its full potential.

So here are 6 little-known features that will save you countless hours (so you can work faster):

Need to create a new document?

Simply type docs.new in the browser.

When inspiration strikes, crack open a fresh document in seconds:

• Cmd + L on Mac, Ctrl + L on Windows to jump to the search bar
• Type docs.new
• Start writing

🤯 🤯

Have multiple Google accounts?

Nothing worse than creating a new document, then having to switch accounts.

So here's another hack:

Adding a number after the docs.new URL will create a new doc under that account.

Here's how it works:

If you have two google accounts

• docs.new/1 creates a new doc in your primary account
• docs.new/2 creates a new doc in your secondary account

Also: this works for all G-Suite apps:

• sheets.new
• slides.new

Again: 🤯

The downside of Google docs: you need to be connected to the internet.

And 95% of writing effectively is avoiding the internet's distractions.

So instead of trying to fight off the temptation of Reddit and Youtube, make your doc available offline and turn your WiFi off.

Tired of typing or running out of things to write?

Try talking instead and let Google type for you.

To use it, click Tools → Voice Typing

I outline just about everything I write with this (and it is remarkably accurate)

Writer's block? Maybe.

Talker's block? Never.

Trying to keep track of your word count?

For some reason, this isn't on by default.

Click Tools → Word Count and check the box "Display word count while typing."

Voilà - now it's pinned to the bottom left of your doc.

Working inside of a huge document?

It's easy to get lost.

Throw a table of contents at the top so you can easily jump around.

Click Insert → Table of Contents

Now you'll never get lost again.

Looking to make it easier to pick back up where you left off?

When you finish writing, highlight your last sentence and leave a comment.

Write a note to your future self capturing your current train of thought, open questions, and what you plan to write next.

Instant momentum.

And that's it!

If you found these hacks helpful, jump back up to the top of this thread and share them with others.

Bonus points for a quote retweet with the one you found most useful:

https://twitter.com/dickiebush/status/1438878494134611971?s=20

6 quick Google Docs hacks, summarized:

• Use docs.new to create new docs
• Add word count to the bottom left
• Create a ToC to keep from getting lost
• Use Google voice typing to beat writer's block
• Start working offline to beat the internet's distractions

And if you found this thread helpful follow me → @dickiebush

I write threads like this on writing effectively and leveraging the internet.

And if you're into writing online, here's a free ultimate guide to help you get started:

startwritingonline.com

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