It started with a simple task. I opened Google Docs to write content for work. The plan was to finish fast and move on. Instead, I wasted time formatting, fixing spelling, hunting for templates and repeating the same steps.
At some point I paused and wondered.
Is this really all Google Docs can do?
It wasn’t.
I was only scratching the surface.
What followed was a slow discovery of shortcuts, hidden menus and small tools that changed the way I write. If you use Google Docs often, these tips will help you write faster and work smarter without digging through menus.
Let’s begin.
1. Start With a Template
Most people open a blank page out of habit. That blank page becomes formatting chaos later.
Google Docs offers free templates for resumes, reports, letters and many other uses. They look clean, save time and give structure.
You can find them by selecting:
File > New > From A Template
Pick one and start writing rather than building everything from scratch.
2. Add New Fonts
If you think Google Docs only has a handful of fonts, look again.
Next to the font name, choose More Fonts. A full library will appear. Select what you want and add it to your list. It keeps your default list neat while giving you options.
3. Teach Google Docs New Words
If you work in a field with technical terms, you may get tired of red underlines.
Instead of fixing them each time, add the word to your dictionary:
Tools > Proofread > Personal Dictionary
Now Google Docs will stop flagging those words.
4. Use Shortcuts
Shortcuts save time and reduce clicking. A few useful ones are:
- Shift + T: New document
- Ctrl + Alt + M: Add comment
- Ctrl + Shift + Y: Open dictionary
- Ctrl + Shift + >: Increase font size
- Ctrl + Enter: Move to new page
- Ctrl + B: Makes Text Bold
These small habits can shave minutes off every writing session.
5. Create Your Own Shortcut
If certain phrases repeat often, automate them.
Go to:
Tools > Preferences > Substitution > Automatic Substitutions
Create a shortcut like /sig that becomes your signature or ;addr for your organisation address.
Simple and effective.
6. Use Headings
Headings help you structure your document and make editing painless. If you write for the web, headings also help search engines understand your content.
Select the format from the top left drop-down and apply:
Heading 1
Heading 2
Heading 3
It keeps everything tidy.
7. Research Without Leaving the Page
You don’t need a separate browser tab while writing.
Select:
Tools > Gemini
A panel opens on the right where you can chat with gemini, search the web. It keeps research close and reduces distraction.
8. Add Footnotes
If you need proper referencing, Google Docs supports footnotes.
Click:
Insert > Footnote
Write the citation and move on. Clean and professional.
9. Use the Built-In Dictionary
Highlight a word. Right-click. Choose Define.
A dictionary panel opens with meaning and synonyms. Helpful when you need a better word without opening another tab.
10. Insert Language Accents
If you write in more than one language, accents can be tricky. Install the add-on Easy Accents.
Go to:
Add-ons > Get add-ons > Easy Accents
Once added, you can insert accents from many languages without searching the web.
11. Better Quality PDF
Better quality PDF? Use:
Print > Save as PDF
Most people use Google Docs as a basic writing tool. Yet beneath the menu are features that remove friction and help you write faster and cleaner.
Try one or two features at a time rather than all at once. Over time, you may find writing feels smoother and far less repetitive.
If you find yourself thinking there must be an easier way, there usually is.
