Google Docs is evolving beyond its perception as a simple alternative to Microsoft Word, offering various underutilized features that enhance productivity. Many users often treat it like a basic text editor, leading to inefficient practices such as manual date entries and excessive file versioning.
One of the platform’s standout capabilities is its sophisticated version control system, which allows users to create named snapshots of their documents. By navigating to File > Version history > Name current version, individuals can save significant milestones in their work, making it easier to track changes and access previous drafts. This feature also enables the deletion of unnecessary older versions, streamlining the document management process.
Additionally, Google Docs includes a voice typing feature that can dramatically increase writing speed. While average typing speeds hover around 40 words per minute, speaking can reach up to 150 words per minute. Users must familiarize themselves with specific commands to effectively utilize this tool, such as saying “Period” or “Comma” for punctuation.