Google Tips And Tricks 

Things are changing all the time. This is true in all aspects of life. Not to get too deep on you here, but change is really the only thing you can count on. Learning how to embrace and accept change is one of those skills that we need to develop in our students because studies show that employers are looking for candidates who are adaptable, resilient, and innovative—qualities that are cultivated through a willingness to embrace change. By developing this skill in high school, students are better prepared for success in college, careers, and beyond.

As educators, it is vital that we model for our students what it looks like to embrace change. One way we can do that is by being transparent and having a growth mindset around technology. Google helps us do this often by instituting changes. While the changes are often subtle, they can also be powerful.

Here is a list of five of my favorite newer or lesser known capabilities within Chrome and Google Workspace. These are in no particular order.

1. Docs.New

Need to create a new Google doc, slides deck, google form, or google sheets?

Simply type: docs.new, slides.new, forms.new, or sheets.new into the ominbox (the URL bar) and voila! It will be created for you.

2. Make QR Codes Within Chrome

You don't need to use a website or other tool to create QR codes.

While you are on the site where you want the QR code to go, just click on the three vertical dots in the upper right corner. Click on Save And Share and choose Create New QR Code.

3. Schedule A Time To Meet Directly From Gmail

You may not have noticed, but when you are composing a gmail message you will now see a mini calendar icon at the bottom of the screen. If you don't see the icon, click the three vertical dots, that's the "more" menu, and click where it says "set up a time to meet". You can choose days and times and then share them via email or create a calendar invite directly from gmail.

4. Snooze an email message

Struggling to manage your inbox? You're not the only one! Hover over, or click on a message in gmail and you will see a little clock icon. Click on the icon and you can snooze the message. It will disappear from your inbox and reappear on the date and time you select. Don't worry, it will come back, and then you can deal with it.

5. Easy Format With The Paint Roller Tool

There are times when we want the format of a section of text to match another section of text. You can do this in one fell swoop using the paint roller tool. Just highlight the text you like, then click on the paint roller and roll it over the text you want to change. Yes, it's that easy. You're welcome.

Have you tried any of these? Did I miss one of your favorites? Feel free to let me know.

Want some help with these or any other edtech project? Feel free to contact me or book a time on my calendar.