How to submit a paper using Google Docs
In the past, you have used Microsoft Word to type a paper, print it, and then turn in the hard copy. In this technological age, that method is becoming outdated. Teachers, professors, and employers are beginning to turn to electronic ways of sharing information because it is actually more efficient and effective and limits paper waste.
For this class, you’re going to be typing your papers on an online program called ‘Google Docs’ and then sharing it with me electronically (no email required!).
Why? Great question! Here are some reasons:
ü By using Google Docs, we guarantee we can all read each other’s papers. No more issues with compatibility.
ü Mrs. Keskes can post her comments directly on the paper online, so you get feedback immediately.
ü You can easily access your paper wherever you are, as long as you have internet.
ü Google Docs automatically saves for you!
ü Whether we like it or not, technology is becoming the way of the world, so by learning how to use this program, you’re already more prepared for college and the workforce than many of your peers.
Now, there’s a little work involved to get started, but after following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to using Google Docs for all of your writing needs. Please ask Mrs. Keskes for help along the way. If you get a little frustrated or a little lost, that’s perfectly normal! Learning something new always goes hand-in-hand with frustration.
1) To use Google Docs, you need to have a Google email account which often referred to as ‘Gmail.’ The school has provided one for you. Your username and password are the same as the ones you use to log onto your school computer.
2) Get online and go to url: www.gmail.com
3) Under ‘user name,’ type in your school email. For example, mine is It’s just your user name to log on to the computer plus “@hartlandschools.us.”
4) Under ‘password,’ type in the password you use to log on to the school computers.
5) Click the ‘More’ button at the top of the page, then ‘Documents.’
6) You are now logged into your Gmail. At the top, you will see “Drive.” Click on it.
7) You are now at Google Drive where you can make a Google document.
8) Select ‘Create new’ in the upper-left corner and then select ‘document.’
9) Click where it says ‘Untitled’ and give your document a name.
10) You can now begin typing your paper. Notice Google Docs continually saves your work as you go (how convenient!).
11) Share with Mrs. Keskes immediately to ensure she gets your paper. Google Docs automatically updates whatever you type on the paper, so she will be able to see all changes you make. Click on ‘Share.’ Under ‘add people,’ type in my Gmail address: . Then, click ‘save and share.’ A little image of me should show up so you know you typed the Gmail address correctly.
12) If you are working with a partner, you would share with them the same way. Only one of you needs to create a document. Once it is shared, you will both have access to it.
13) That’s it! Your paper has been shared. As you continue to type, Mrs. Keskes will continue to get the latest version of your paper. After the due date, she will then read your paper and post comments. Her comments will appear directly on the essay in the right-hand column. You even have the opportunity to comment back if you’d like.