Yes, we all know Google is master of the search universe, but did you know some of the other cool stuff Google is developing? One awesome collaborative tool for the digital student is Google Docs.
If you’ve used it before, skim down a couple sections for highlights of some less-used and new tools available in Google Docs. But here’s some basic information if you need an overview…
The basics first
Google Docs is most aptly compared to a wiki, so go read that article first if you’re curious. Similarities include the ability to upload documents in several formats (such as MS Word, Powerpoint, and Excel), the ability to edit privacy settings, and the ability for any number of collaborators you may choose. Contrary to some beliefs, you do NOT have to have a Gmail account in order to use Google Docs – any email will do. If you don’t have an account yet, it’s easy to start one…
NetworkEducation for Beginners
- Go to docs.google.com
- Explore some of the different types of documents you can create on Docs by clicking on the icons for Document, Spreadsheet, Presentation, Drawing, or Forms. Documents works pretty much like MS Word, Spreadsheet works pretty much like MS Excel, and Presentation works pretty much like MS Powerpoint, which most people are more familiar with; so I’m not going to spend much time talking about those. But if you want some tutorials or directions on those, go here and watch some of the tutorial videos https://www.youtube.com/docs
- Click on Try Google Docs Now to try a live demo. To start an account, click the Get Started button. Fill in the required information: email, password, some demographic information.
- Go to your email and click on the verification link.
- Go back to docs.google.com and log in.
- You should see a screen like this — click to see a bigger version with some highlights:
- Choose Create New document, spreadsheet, or presentation. Create and save a couple practice files, click Share to invite your best friend to collaborate, and by now you’re ready to go on to the….
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