Google Docs Tech Shortcuts for a Gen-Z Journalist

Google Docs, with its sharing-friendly interface, is a favorite in the newsroom. These shortcuts reduce the hassle of clicking through dozens of menus. This list is curated to Mac users, but for Windows commands, press Ctrl instead of Command.

1. Bold: Command + B

   1. I use this while drafting or editing my own articles to mark phrases that don't sound "right." This helps me just put all my thoughts down first and prevents writer's block.

2. Strikethrough: Command + Shift + X

   1. Sometimes, while self-editing, you may come across a sentence or paragraph you don't like and delete it, only to want to bring it back later. Instead of deleting it and rummaging through version history later, use strikethrough formatting.

3. Numbered list: Command + Shift + 7, Bulleted list: Command + Shift + 8

   1. This tool allows for better organization when drafting outlines.

4. Hyperlink sources to claims; Command + K

5. Find: Command + F

   1. This tool helps filter out repetitive words. Plug keywords into your article and see how many times you repeat them. This allows you to see where you should replace. The rule of thumb is that excluding quotes, each word should be repeated no more than twice per paragraph. For shorter words, make sure to press the space bar before and after the word so Google Docs doesn't highlight instances where what you're looking for is a part of a different word.

6. Find and Replace: Command + Shift + H

   1. This tool is a life-saver when you've made the same mistake all throughout your article (e.g. AP Style mistakes). After you find and replace, make sure to check the article again for spacing mistakes.

7. Switch to editing: Command + Option + Shift + Z, Switch to suggesting: Command + Option + Shift + X

   1. As mentioned in earlier posts, editing in suggestion mode gives writers more agency. However, for simple grammar and punctuation edits, suggestions may clutter the document too much. In this case, use these two shortcuts to easily toggle between the two modes.

8. Add comment: Command + Option + M

   1. Arguably one of the most useful tools, the comment shortcut comes in handy for both writers and editors. During the writing process, use comments to make annotations or to-do notes for yourself. For editors, use comments extensively to explain glows and grows for writers.

   2. TIP: Use Command + Enter to post comments without having to go to your trackpad.

9. Count words: Command + Shift + C

10. Search bar: Option + /

    1. Use this if you don't know where a shortcut is. The search bar gives you a button for the action and also shows you shortcuts for future reference.

11. Full list of shortcuts: Command + /