This one hidden Google shortcut will save you time every single day
Most of us know at least some basic keyboard shortcuts. Ctrl + C for copy, Ctrl + V for paste, and the infamous Ctrl + Alt + Delete for when things aren’t going so well.
That’s not all. You can use your keyboard to paste text without its original messy formatting, take a picture of your screen, and create a virtual desktop to keep work and life separate. Tap or click here for seven shortcuts that will help you save even more time.
There are more ways to cut to the chase beyond a few keystrokes. If you use Google Docs, Sheets, and Calendar, here’s a smart, quick way to create new files and events without clicking through menus.
Use Google shortcuts to create new files
Microsoft Office is expensive. If you don’t want to pay for Word, Excel, and all the rest, a free alternative is a way to go. Google isn’t the only option out there. Tap or click here for seven free choices that do what Word does.
But if you do use Google Docs, here’s a trick you need to know. The same goes for opening a new Google Sheet, Google’s version of Excel.
A similar shortcut opens your Google Calendar with a new blank calendar entry for you to fill in, which is faster than going through your calendar itself or Google Drive.
Here’s how it works
First, make sure you’re signed in to your Google account. Now open your browser. Enter in the type of file you want to create, along with “.new” in the browser’s URL bar.
For example, you can open a Google Doc by typing in “document.new” or a calendar entry by typing “cal.new.”
Here’s a handy list for reference. You can use any of the following shortcuts for each application:
- Google Docs: document.new, docs.new, doc.new.
- Google Sheets: spreadsheet.new, sheets.new, sheet.new.
- Google Slides: presentation.new, slides.new, slide.new.
- Google Forms: forms.new, form.new.
- Google Keep: keep.new, notes.new, note.new.
- Google Calendar: meeting.new, cal.new.
- Google Meeting: meet.new.
Tech security: How to wipe your phone or computer if it’s lost or stolen
Selling your old tech can put cash in your pocket, but don’t forget your devices store sensitive data that you don’t want a stranger to access.
Your smart speaker, for example, knows your location and may even store your voice recordings locally. Tap or click here for steps to wipe and deregister your Amazon Echo before selling it.
Alexa isn't the only thing to call your Echo - Here's what all the other names do
Smart assistants like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home can make your daily tasks easier. They can also update you on traffic conditions and nudge you with specific reminders.
Even though they are only electronics at heart, you still need to call them by name to get their attention. While the standard “Hey, Alexa” will prick her ears every time, did you know that you can call her something else? Tap or click here to enable celebrity voices like Shaq on your Amazon Echo.