Welcome to the First Column IT Tech Blog

HomeBlog
Tip of the Week: These Google Docs Shortcuts are Really Valuable

Tip of the Week: These Google Docs Shortcuts are Really Valuable

October 30, 2024

Does your business rely on Google Workspace for productivity? If so, we have some helpful tips to boost your efficiency by using lesser-known shortcuts. Let’s dive into a few tricks that can save you time and help your team work smarter.

Quickly Create a New File

Did you know you can create a new Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides file without even opening the app? All you have to do is type the application name followed by “.new” into your browser’s address bar, and a new file will open in a fresh tab.

New document - docs.new
New spreadsheet - sheets.new
New presentation - slides.new

It’s a simple trick, but it can speed things up. Just make sure you’re logged into the correct Google account before creating your new file.

Handy Keyboard Shortcuts

Most Google apps come with built-in keyboard shortcuts that can make your workflow faster. Here are some of the most useful ones for Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides:

For Google Docs

Copy - Ctrl + C
Cut - Ctrl + X
Paste - Ctrl + V
Bold - Ctrl + B
Italic - Ctrl + I
Find - Ctrl + F
Insert Link - Ctrl + K

For Google Sheets

Select column - Ctrl + Space
Select row - Shift + Space
Insert link - Ctrl + K
Bold - Ctrl + B
Clear formatting - Ctrl + \
Center align - Ctrl + Shift + E

For Google Slides

New slide - Ctrl + M
Select all - Ctrl + A
Bold - Ctrl + B
Increase font size - Ctrl + Shift + >
Group objects - Ctrl + Alt + G

Streamline Your Workflow

By using these shortcuts, you can navigate your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations much faster, allowing you to focus on the work that matters.

Pro Tip: Post These Shortcuts Nearby

We recommend printing this list of shortcuts and keeping it close to your workspace for easy reference. Having it handy will save you time and help you avoid Googling each shortcut while you're working.

For more tips on how to maximize productivity with your technology, give us a call at (571) 470-5594 today

Previous Post
July 25, 2026
Your Team is Your Best Technology
Deploying AI and automation across a business does not automatically improve revenue generation and profit margins. It is common to look at the current software landscape and treat new tools as a shortcut to bypass foundational strategy. Technology amplifies efficiency, but it cannot manufacture value out of thin air.
July 22, 2026
The Hidden Risks of Software Bloat and Phishing
Navigating business technology right now feels remarkably heavy. It is not just one sudden shift causing the strain, but rather a compounding series of software overhead increases and evolving security threats. Many decision makers find themselves caught in a cycle of paying more for tools while getting less actual utility from them.
July 19, 2026
Stop Buying, Start Optimizing: A Guide to Operational Longevity
Keeping an organization operational for decades requires a shift in how you view your daily operations. Longevity is rarely achieved by chasing the newest enterprise software platforms or upgrading hardware cycles ahead of schedule. Sustainable growth comes from maximizing the assets you already own, protecting your information, and respecting the workforce using those tools.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation. We will provide a detailed proposal and firm quote based on your specific IT support needs. All at a predictable monthly cost per seat.
Free Consultation - Sign Up Here