Open Google Docs and start a blank document

Go to docs.google.com in your web browser. If you are signed into your Google account, you will see your document list. If you are not signed in, click the blue "Sign in" button in the top right corner and enter your Google email and password.

Once you are signed in, look for the blue plus sign (+) button in the bottom right corner of the screen, or click "Blank" under the "Start a new document" section at the top. Either action opens a new, empty document ready for typing.

Google Docs will automatically save your document with a generic name like "Untitled document" at the top. You can change this name right away by clicking on "Untitled document" and typing a new title, or you can name it later.

Key Takeaways

  • A new blank document opens immediately when you click the plus button or "Blank" option, with no additional setup required.
  • Your document saves automatically to your Google Drive as you type, so you do not need to manually save it.
  • You can rename your document at any time by clicking the title at the top and typing a new name.
  • You can share your document with others by clicking the blue "Share" button in the top right corner and entering their email addresses.
  • Your document is stored in the cloud, which means you can open it from any device as long as you are signed into your Google account.

Name your document before you start typing

When a new document opens, the title field is ready for you to type in. Click on "Untitled document" at the top and replace it with a name that describes what you are writing — for example, "Grocery List," "Meeting Notes," or "Resume." A clear name makes it much easier to find your document later when you have many files.

If you skip naming it now, you can change the name anytime by clicking the title at the top of the page. Google Docs does not lock you into your first choice, so do not worry if you want to rename it after you have written some content.

Understand where your document is saved

When you create a document in Google Docs, it automatically saves to your Google Drive — a cloud storage space tied to your Google account. You do not have to click a "Save" button or choose a folder. Every time you type, Google Docs saves your work in the background.

This means your document is safe even if your computer crashes or loses power. It also means you can open the same document from your phone, tablet, or a different computer, as long as you sign into your Google account. Your work is always there.

If you want to see all your documents in one place, go to drive.google.com and sign in with the same Google account. You will see a list of everything you have created, including your new Google Doc.

Start typing and format as you go

Click in the white space below your document title and begin typing. Google Docs works like any word processor — your text appears as you type, and you can use the toolbar at the top to make text bold, italic, or underlined. Highlight any text first, then click the B (bold), I (italic), or U (underline) button.

You can also change the font, text size, and text color using the dropdown menus in the toolbar. The font menu (which usually shows "Arial" or "Calibri" by default) lets you pick a different typeface. The size menu next to it controls how large or small your text appears. These tools work the same way they do in Microsoft Word or other document programs.

Do not worry about making your document look perfect right away. You can format text, add headings, and adjust spacing at any point — even after you have written everything. Google Docs saves all your changes automatically, so you can experiment without losing your work.

Add images, tables, and other content

To add an image to your document, click the "Insert" menu at the top, then select "Image." You can upload a photo from your computer, search the web for an image, or paste a link to a picture online. Google Docs will place the image where your cursor is positioned, and you can drag it to move it around or resize it by pulling the corners.

To add a table, click "Insert" and then "Table." A small grid appears where you can choose how many rows and columns you want. Tables are useful for organizing information into rows and columns — for example, a schedule, a price list, or a comparison of options.

You can also insert a bulleted or numbered list by clicking the list buttons in the toolbar (they look like three horizontal lines with dots or numbers). These are helpful for organizing information that does not fit neatly into paragraphs.

Share your document with others

To let someone else view or edit your document, click the blue "Share" button in the top right corner. A box will open asking you to enter email addresses. Type the email address of the person you want to share with, then choose whether they can "View" (read only), "Comment" (suggest changes), or "Edit" (make changes directly).

Once you click "Share," Google Docs sends an email to that person with a link to your document. They can open it immediately without needing to download anything or create a special account. If you change your mind, you can remove someone's access by clicking "Share" again and clicking the X next to their name.

Access your document from any device

Your Google Doc is stored in the cloud, so you can open it on your phone, tablet, or any other computer. Just go to docs.google.com, sign in with your Google account, and your document will appear in your list. You can also download your document as a Word file (.docx), PDF, or other format by clicking "File" and then "Download."

If you are using a phone or tablet, you can download the free Google Docs app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android). The app works the same way as the web version and keeps your documents in sync across all your devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Google Docs save my work automatically?

Yes. Google Docs saves every change you make in the background as you type. You will see a small message that says "Saving..." and then "Saved to Drive" at the top of your document. You never have to click a save button.

Can I use Google Docs offline?

Yes, but you need to turn on offline mode first. Click "File," then "Work offline," and toggle it on. You can then edit your document without an internet connection. When you go back online, Google Docs will sync your changes automatically.

What if I accidentally delete something from my document?

Click "Edit" at the top, then "Undo" (or press Ctrl+Z on Windows or Command+Z on Mac). You can undo multiple actions to get back to an earlier version of your document. Google Docs also keeps a version history, so you can restore an older version by clicking "File" and then "Version history."

Can I print my Google Doc?

Yes. Click "File," then "Print." Your browser's print dialog will open. Choose your printer, adjust any settings, and click "Print." You can also save your document as a PDF by clicking "File," then "Download," and selecting "PDF Document."

What happens if I lose internet connection while editing?

Google Docs will keep your document open and let you keep typing. When your internet comes back, it will sync your changes automatically. If you are worried about losing work, turn on offline mode first so you can edit without an internet connection.