Google Docs: write and format
Start a document, type and format text with headings, bold and lists, and let Google Docs save your work automatically.
Write and format documents with Google Docs, free on your phone or computer. A word processor is an app for writing documents, like letters, essays and reports. Google Docs is free. It works in your browser or as an app, and it saves your work automatically, so you won't lose it. Go to docs dot google dot com, or open the Docs app, and tap the plus button to start a new document. Then start typing. Use a heading style for your title and for section titles. It makes your document clear and easy to read. To make words bold or italic, select them first, then tap B for bold, or I for italic. Use bold for important words, but not too much.
The formatting toolbar
B makes text bold. I makes text italic, leaning to one side. The list buttons make bulleted or numbered lists. And the alignment buttons line text up on the left, in the centre, or on the right.
New word: Cursor
When you type, look for the blinking line. It's called the cursor, and it shows where your words will appear. To add words somewhere else, tap or click there to move the cursor first.
Writing tips
Keep your paragraphs short, so they're easy to read. Use headings and lists to break up your writing. A red wavy line under a word means the spelling might be wrong. Tap it to see suggestions. And give your document a clear name, by tapping Untitled document at the top.
Quick check
Quick check. You want one important word to stand out. What should you do? Select it and tap B for bold. Options: Select it and tap B for bold; Type it in all capitals; Delete the other words; Change the font of the whole page.
Recap
Google Docs is free, and it saves your work automatically. Use headings for titles. Select text first, then format it. Fix your spelling, and give your document a clear name.
Key points
- Google Docs is a free word processor that works on phones and computers and saves automatically.
- Start a document at docs.google.com or in the Docs app with the plus button.
- Use headings for titles. To format words, select them first, then tap B (bold), I (italic) or a list button.
- The cursor shows where you'll type. A red wavy line marks a possible spelling mistake.
Try it: Your first document
Make a short document in Google Docs.