Here are 15 productivity tips and hacks for using Google Workspace:
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Google Workspace applications, such as Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides, have various keyboard shortcuts that can save you time and effort. For example, press “c” to compose a new email in Gmail, or press Ctrl + / to access the list of shortcuts in Google Docs.
- Set up Email Filters: In Gmail, create filters to automatically sort and label incoming emails based on sender, subject, keywords, or other criteria. This can help you keep your inbox organized and prioritize important emails.
- Utilize Google Docs Offline: Enable offline access for Google Docs, so you can continue working on your documents even when you’re not connected to the internet. Simply go to “Settings” > “General” > “Offline” and check the box to enable offline access.
- Collaborate in Real-Time: Google Workspace is designed for collaborative work. Use features like real-time editing and commenting in Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides to collaborate with team members simultaneously, making edits and providing feedback in real-time.
- Utilize Templates: Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides offer a wide range of pre-designed templates for various purposes, such as resumes, project plans, and meeting agendas. Utilize these templates to save time and create professional-looking documents.
- Use Google Drive File Stream: Google Drive File Stream is a desktop application that allows you to access and manage your Google Drive files directly from your computer, without taking up local storage space. This can help you easily access and sync files across devices.
- Utilize Google Calendar Features: Google Calendar has many features to help you manage your schedule efficiently. Use features like scheduling appointments, setting reminders, creating recurring events, and sharing calendars with team members to stay organized and manage your time effectively.
- Use Google Meet for Virtual Meetings: Google Meet is a powerful video conferencing tool within Google Workspace. Utilize features like screen sharing, breakout rooms, and recording meetings to conduct virtual meetings, webinars, and presentations with your team or clients.
- Customize Google Workspace Settings: Google Workspace applications have various customization options. Take the time to customize settings, such as email signature, default fonts, and display settings, to suit your preferences and workflow, which can help you work more efficiently.
- Utilize Google Search Operators: Use advanced search operators in Gmail and Google Drive to quickly find specific emails, files, or folders. For example, use “from:[sender]” to search for emails from a specific sender or “type:document” to search for Google Docs files.
- Utilize Google Keep for Notes and Reminders: Google Keep is a note-taking and task management tool that integrates with Google Workspace. Use it to create and manage notes, reminders, and to-do lists, and sync them across devices for easy access.
- Use Google Forms for Surveys and Feedback: Google Forms is a powerful tool for creating surveys, feedback forms, and quizzes. Use it to collect responses, feedback, and data from team members, clients, or customers, and analyze the results in Google Sheets.
- Utilize Google Drive Add-ons: Google Drive has a range of add-ons that can enhance your productivity. For example, add-ons like DocuSign, Trello, and MindMeister can help you sign documents, manage tasks, and create mind maps directly from Google Drive.
- Utilize Google Workspace Mobile Apps: Google offers a suite of mobile apps for Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides, Google Calendar, and more. Utilize these mobile apps to access and manage your Google Workspace files and tasks on the go, using your smartphone or tablet.
- Use Smart Compose: Google Workspace’s Smart Compose feature in Gmail can help you write emails faster by suggesting phrases and sentences as you type. You can use it to save time and improve your productivity.
