Google Docs: 20 Features Even Longtime Users Might Overlook

As Google Docs marks its 20th anniversary, a compilation of 20 helpful features has been released, many of which may be unknown even to long-term users of the platform. The tips focus on improving efficiency and streamlining the document creation process.

Several shortcuts and features are highlighted for speed. For instance, users can create a new document instantly by typing "doc.new" into any browser window, a shortcut that also applies to other Google services like Sheets and Slides. The platform also offers template options and the ability to match the formatting of prior documents, aiding in consistent design.

For users working with extensive documents, features like an automatically generated table of contents, based on document headings, can significantly improve navigation. Google Docs also provides a "Pageless" format, designed for on-screen reading, which removes page breaks and accommodates wider images, enhancing the digital presentation.

The suite of tools includes aids for text accuracy and accessibility. Voice typing allows users to dictate text, while built-in proofreading tools offer suggestions for grammar and sentence structure. Instant document translation is also available, creating a translated copy of the original document for broader sharing.

Functionality can be extended through add-ons, such as those for attaching voice notes or generating word clouds. Version history allows for tracking changes, and users can easily create copies of documents for backup or alternative versions.