Have you ever wondered how to use Google Docs offline? Google Docs is an online word processor that provides a wide range of templates you can use to create any type of document, be it a school assignment or a professional report. It also makes it easy for people to collaborate and work on certain documents together in real-time. But is there a solution on how to enable offline editing in Google Docs?
You can access your documents and make edits even without connecting to the internet, thanks to the platform’s offline mode. This is favorable to people residing in areas with erratic internet connections, as well as for those who need to make some edits on the go.
To turn on the offline mode feature in Google Docs, start by heading over to https://docs.google.com and choosing the document you want to edit. Next, click the three dots icon on its bottom-right portion, then toggle on the “Available offline” option from the drop-down menu.
In this article, we’ll go into more detail on how the process is done on a PC, alternative ways you can try, and how to do it on a mobile phone. We’ll also discuss the features that are unavailable when offline mode is on.
Table of Contents
How to Use Google Docs Offline on a Computer
It only takes a few simple steps to work offline on Google Docs on a computer or laptop. Just remember that all the changes you make will only sync when you are connected to the internet. Here’s how you do it.
- Go to Google Docs and log into your account.
- Look for the Docs file you want to edit offline and click the three vertical dots on its bottom-right portion.
- From the drop-down menu that appears, turn on the toggle next to “Available offline.”
- Confirm by clicking “Turn on” in the appearing dialog box.
When you see a checkmark on its bottom-left corner, you know that you have successfully made it available offline on Google Docs for viewing and editing even without internet connectivity. Keep in mind, though, that the changes you’ve made while offline would only be saved and synced once you get connected online again.
If you’re wondering how to use Google Docs offline on a Mac, you should know that the steps would be the same, given that the products of Google are web-based. Do keep in mind that this method only works on Google Chrome.
How to Use Google Docs Offline on a Mobile Device
The steps on how to allow offline editing in Google Docs on a mobile phone or tablet are identical to those used on a computer. Similarly, any changes made on your device while offline will only sync when you have an internet connection.
Here’s what you can do:
- Launch the Google Docs app on your device.
- Search for the file that you want to make available offline, then tap the three vertical dots on its bottom part.
- Tap “Make available offline.”
Unavailable Features While Using Google Docs Offline
While Google Docs’ offline mode gives you access to your documents even without WiFi, there are several things you won’t be able to see or use. For instance, you may not be able to access real-time collaboration features when working on a document.
Also, some advanced formatting options may be limited in offline mode compared to when you’re online. However, you can use or add these features when your internet connection is restored. Take note of the following features you might not be able to use in offline mode:
File Sharing
You won’t be able to share your files with anyone when you’re offline since this action requires WiFi. Therefore, you must first set up an internet connection if you want to share files.
Google Docs Add-Ons
You cannot use the Google Docs “add-on” feature to download fonts or text styles because you also need an internet connection for this. However, you can still use the fonts or text styles that are already available.
Syncing Changes From Collaborators
Although you can make changes to the file even if you’re offline, neither you nor anyone else will be able to see the changes you make. This underlines the significance of consistently syncing your changes online to make sure that everyone is using the most recent copy of the file.
Spell-Checking
Google Docs won’t be able to detect wrong-spelled words. For accuracy and real-time suggestions, the spell-checking feature needs access to an online database.
Image Insertion From the Web
When using Google Docs’ offline mode, you cannot add or insert images from the internet or browser. Still, you can upload an image from your computer or mobile device. Just click “Insert” on the toolbar, tap “Upload from Device,” and then select the image you wish to insert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Google Docs Offline?
Yes. Google Docs is accessible even without WiFi, which makes it a practical option for those who need to access and edit their documents without data. However, take note that while using the offline mode, some Google Docs collaborative features might not be available. Also, the use of some other Docs features that require internet connections is restricted.
Why Won’t Google Docs Let Me Make a Document Available Offline?
You might be using an incompatible browser to access Google Docs. Keep in mind that the offline mode of Google Docs is exclusively available via Google Chrome at the moment. To circumnavigate this, you can either install Google Chrome on your computer, make your document available offline on the mobile app, or download your document as a Word file.
Can I Work Offline on Google Docs with Safari?
No. Without internet connectivity, you cannot access Google Docs or make changes to your documents using Safari. Google Chrome is the only browser that supports the offline mode feature in Google Docs. This means that to use Google Docs on Safari, you must have internet access.
Wrapping Up
Google Docs’ offline mode is a useful feature for everyone, especially when your internet connection is unstable due to bad weather. It is also beneficial for individuals who do not have regular access to WiFi. Just keep in mind to sync your files once you are connected to the internet again to make sure all modifications are saved and will not go to waste.
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