Google Docs is aGoogle Workspacetool that allows groups to collaborate on writing projects regardless of whether you use a PC, Mac, oraffordable Chromebook. That said, it’s not uncommon for projects to contain pages upon pages of information that’ll get unwieldy. What if you don’t have time to sift through 20 or more pages? Luckily, Google Docs summaries can help you learn everything about any document before you read the first sentence, and it’s easy for anyone to use.
What are Google Docs summaries?
A Google Docs summary is designed to be simple to use while still adding value to the document. They work just like any other synopsis in that their primary task is to quickly inform the reader about what’s in the article. There’s no limit to how many words you can add to the summary, but you only get one summary per article, so less means more here. The summary can also be viewed by anyone you share the document with and can be updated in real-time, making it great for quickly updating collaborators on progress.
Perhaps the best aspect is that you can use these Google Docs summaries even when you’re offline. That means you can create and read summaries even when you aren’t connected to the internet. All changes will sync once you reconnect.
Currently, the summaries feature only works on desktops and laptops, with no option to add or edit them in the mobile app. That said, if you really need to work on your phone or tablet, you can access the document via desktop mode and make a summary there.
How to use a Google Docs summary
Thankfully, you don’t have to struggle to use Doc’s summary feature. Here is how it works:
You only get one summary section per document. The best way to use it is to write out a few sentences.
How to edit a Google Docs summary
Although the summary doesn’t allow for any specific formatting, it does allow you to easily edit what’s in the text box.
How to use AI-generated summaries
If you are a Google Workspace customer, you can also make AI-generated summaries. Here’s how to access this feature:
Like a regular Google Docs summary, this AI feature is currently exclusive to desktop users. Make sure to read the summary over and check that it properly summarizes your document.
Use Google Docs summaries in your next project
Using Google Docs to create article summaries allows users to keep up with one another and stay informed about the latest changes. For bigger projects, you’ll want to pair these summaries with additional collaboration software like Google Meet orGoogle Groupsto connect further and get more done.
