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 6 Get Started with Google
 Google Account Set Up
 Improving Your Google Security
 Protecting Your Privacy on Google
 Improving Your Google Searches
 Using Specialised Google Search
 How to Create Google Alerts
 How to Personalise Google Trends
 Getting Started with Chrome
 Customising the Chrome Browser
 How to Save and Sync Chrome
 Using the Chrome Web Store
 How to Use Chrome Plug-ins
 Setting Up Chrome Autofill
 Chrome Tips and Tricks

4 www.bdmpublications.com
 Contents

42 Using Google Apps

 Get Started with Gmail  Using Photo Collages and Animations
 How to Customise Gmail  Editing Images Using Photos
 Dealing with Gmail Spam  Using Your Photo Albums
 Instant Chat in Gmail  Getting Started with YouTube
 How to Use Gmail Conversations  Using the YouTube App
 Create Tasks from Gmail  Uploading Videos to YouTube
 Schedule Your Gmail Messages  How to Use Google Drive
 Gmail User Tips and Tricks  Restore Deleted Drive Files
 Improving the Google Calendar  Set Up and Use Google Docs
 Get Started with Google Maps  How to Use Google Sheets
 Planning a Route with Maps  Set Up and Use Google Drawing
 Using Google Street View  How to Use Google Slides
 Share and Embed Maps  Use Templates and Forms
 Explore Deeper with Maps  How to Use Google Cloud Print
 Google Maps Tips and Tricks  Set Up and Use Google Keep
 Explore with Google Earth  How to Use Google Pay
 How to Use Google Translate  Get Inside the Google Play Store
 How to Use Google Flights  Create a Blog with Blogger
 Getting Started with Photos

122 Google Hardware Guides

 The Google Home Collection  Google Home Tips and Tricks
 Google Home First Time Setup  The Google Pixel Hardware
 Play Music on Google Home  Google Pixel Tips and Tricks
 Using Google Home Routines  How to Use Google Chromecast
 Play Music Using Bluetooth  All About Google Stadia

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 Get Started with Google

6 www.bdmpublications.com
Get Started
with
Google
There are many reasons (all of which are
covered in this publication) to delve into
the Google app suite. Yet before you
start to explore these amazing tools and
discover just how much you can do with
them, you need to get to grips with the
basics. What follows details how to set up
your all-important Google account and
also teaches you some important safety
tips to ensure all of your online Google
adventures are secure ones.

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Get Started with Google

Google Account
Set Up
In the past, using several different Google apps would have meant having
several different usernames and passwords. Thankfully, Google took steps
to merge all of these different accounts into one main Google account.
This means that you only have to remember one username and password
to access almost any Google product, plus it is much easier to share
information, images and other data between your devices.

Step 2
kEnter your name into the boxes provided and choose your
preferred gmail.com email address. If the name you want is already
taken, you will be shown some alternatives; or you can try another
of your own.

Use Across Devices

One of the regular questions we receive regarding
Google’s applications is: “Can I use my Google account
sign in details on both my smartphone and my
computer? Thankfully, the answer to that question is
yes, follow the information below to set up your Google
Account details and then you will be able to use them on
all compatible devices and apps.

Creating a Google
Account Step 3
kComplete the
Step 1 remainder of the
kUsing any Internet information, including
browser, navigate a phone number
to www.accounts. and alternative email
google.com and click address; useful if you
on Create account in need to recover your
the bottom left corner login info. You will also
of the screen. Now need to complete the
choose to set up either entire form and agree to
an individual or a Google Terms of Service
business account. to progress.

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 Google Account Set Up

Step 4 Step 7
kAfter completed the initial sign up process, you are taken to the kThese links show any devices that have, or are currently,
core My Account page. From this page you can customise your accessing your account. If these details don’t match your records,
entire Google user experience as follows. you can change your password using the Personal Info link.

Step 5 Step 8
kStarting with the kReturn to the Google account page where the next option,
Account Protected Privacy & Personalisation link, enables you to manage and edit all
option, you can, of your data and details used during this initial setup process.
from here, check
the activity of your
account, confirming
that you are the
only user, list
devices that are
logged in via your
account and explore
recovery options.

Step 6
kThere are key areas of the Security options available that
can rapidly give you an insight into the uses of your account.
Beginning with the Your Devices option, which is very important.

Step 9
kThe Personal info
link, left side bar,
opens a page that
holds a complete
record of the
information you have
shared with Google.
Check to ensure it is
correct. Any issues are
shown as a triangle
symbol containing a
“!” icon, click or tap to
correct them.

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Get Started with Google

Google Account Set Up cont.

Step 10 Step 13
kFor now, we are going to move past the Privacy & personalisation kYou can download or transfer your Google account content such
options as, due to their importance and complexity, they are as Internet bookmarks, contents, stored files on Google Drive, etc.,
covered in greater depth in this guide. should you wish to close your Google account.

Step 11 Step 14
kSelect the Data kAlthough better suited to a long term user, even as a new user it
& personalisation is advisable to keep an updated archive of your Google data and
option to view a files should the worst happen to your hardware.
quick access listing of
all your current and
historic Google uses.
Each section acts
as a shortcut link to
the app itself, such
as Gmail.

Step 12
kAd personalisation can’t completely block any adverts from your
Google experience but you can edit the type of adverts you are
exposed to, by selecting the topics you like or dislike from the listings.

Step 15
kFinally, we have the Delete a service or your account option. Here
you can customise everything from how you use your Google
account to ultimately deleting your Google account entirely.

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 Google Account Set Up

Step 16 Step 19
kYou can change the language of your account using the kHaving set up your Google account, you can return to check/
Language & Input Tools and change the way Google is displayed change any settings via the account home page located at:
via the Accessibility tools, from increased contrast to a text reading. myaccount.google.com.

Step 17
kIf you wish to give up on Google, we would advise you not to,
Multiple Google
you can delete your apps and account itself by ticking the two Yes
boxes at the bottom of this page.
Accounts
It is possible to have more than one Google account
and then sync those accounts on your Android phone
or tablet.

Adding and syncing a second account will not merge

those two accounts anywhere but on your phone (and
even here, only in certain apps). Nothing is ever synced
between your Google accounts, allowing you to keep
things nicely separate for personal and work accounts,
for example.
Step 18
kFinally, return to the main Google accounts page. By tapping the
icon, top right, you can add a profile picture if you wish. Having a
profile picture of yourself will help friends and family find you on
their own Google apps.

To add another account via your phone or tablet, go

to Settings > Accounts and then tap the Add Account
button. This screen shows all accounts associated with
the device. Choose what sort of account you wish to add
from the options on the screen; as you can see, it is not
just multiple Google accounts that you can add.

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Get Started with Google

Improving Your
Google Security
Keeping yourself and your family safe whilst using your Google apps is
just as important as it is when you are sharing your details and your files
online. That said it doesn’t need to be difficult. While using the Internet
and social networks can have its problems, you can reduce them to a
minimal level by following a few simple pieces of advice.

Keep them Random

Online Passwords kTry to avoid using anything that is easy to guess, including
If you are anything like us, the number of passwords that you need personal information like your name, date of birth or address.
to remember grows on an almost daily basis and because of this, it These things are all very easy to discover and often the first things
can be tempting to use the same or similar passwords for several someone will try to get into your accounts. Also avoid, if possible,
different websites. This is a bad idea, particularly if your chosen using real words or sequential strings of numbers, e.g. 123456789.
password is something easy to guess such as your name or date of
birth. Here are a few tips to consider when creating passwords.

Keep them Unique

kHaving a unique password for each website you are required to
log in to is a very good idea, particularly for things like email and
online banking. Although security on a banking website is likely to
be very good, if you use the same password on a website with less
stringent security, you risk it being compromised on one and used
to gain access to the other. It is not unusual for criminals to harvest
passwords from a weak website and then randomly try them on
more secure sites.

The Longer, the Better

kShort passwords are much easier to crack than long ones, so be
sure to avoid anything less than eight characters and, if possible,
go for something ten characters long at least. There are 4000
times more possible combinations of ten letters and numbers,
than there are for eight letters and numbers. Most good websites
require at least eight character passwords nowadays.

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 Improving Your Google Security

Mix it Up
kOnce you start adding in symbols and mixed case letters, along
with numbers, into your passwords, the possible variations rise
to over six quadrillion (for an eight character password). The
password A1z7yDbP is many thousands of times more secure
than a1z7ydbp.

Use a Password Manager

kFor most people, keeping a written list of their passwords is
perfectly okay as long as you make sure that it is not left in plain
sight on your desk, etc. Even keeping a text document on your
computer with your passwords listed is not usually a risk. Just don’t
call the file ‘Passwords’ and leave in on the desktop. A much safer
way, however, is to use a good Password Manager. These simple
bits of software let you store your passwords in a locked file on
your computer. Just as long as you have a very good password to
get into the manager, your other passwords will be safe. You then
only need to remember one password, instead of 10 or 20.

What are Cookies?

Cookies (or HTML Cookies) are small files used by
websites to recognise individual users (or rather,
recognise their computer). When you visit a website, a
cookie is stored in a temporary folder on your computer.
When you next visit that site, the cookie will be checked
for. Different sites use cookies to store different
information but a good example is information in a form
being automatically filled when visiting a site you have
used recently to order something.

Almost all modern browsers, including Internet Explorer,

Chrome and Safari, allow you to block cookies from being
downloaded. However, it is worth remembering that
many websites now need cookies to work properly, and
so blocking them could mean your browsing experience
is a frustrating one. Cookies are nothing to be afraid of,
Enable/Disable Cookies they are simply used to make the Internet work better.

in Chrome kSelect Allow local data to be set to allow both first-party

kTo disable cookies in Chrome web browser, click the Three and third-party cookies. If you only want to accept first-party
dots icon or Menu button in the top right corner of the browser cookies, check the box next to “Block all third-party cookies
window. Select Settings, scroll to the bottom and click Advanced without exception.”
settings. Now click Site settings, in the Privacy section, and
then Cookies.

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Get Started with Google

Social Networks – Advice

for Parents
Being parents ourselves, we understand the pressure that many
people feel to let their children use the Internet and social
networks in particular. Many social networking sites, including
Facebook, don’t allow children under 13 years of age to have
accounts. Unfortunately there is little they can do to stop a child
below that age entering false details. Rather than a blanket ban on
using the Internet and social networks, and potentially have your
child visit them behind your back, perhaps a better way to keep
your child safe online is to understand the dangers yourself and
Cyber Bullying make sure your children understand them as well.

Sadly, bullying isn’t confined to the playground or Do Some Research

classroom any more. Cyber bullying is when a child, or kHopefully, if you are reading this, you already want to learn
even an adult, is bullied via text message, email, social more about social networking and networks. This guide is a
networks or other online means. great place to start increasing your understanding of what you
can do (and therefore what your child can do) on sites such as
The best way to deal with a cyber bully on a social Facebook, Twitter and Google+. Read as much as you can about
network is to simply block that person, or not accept the
the networks your children use and remember that one of the best
friend request of someone who bullies you in real life.
sources of information is often the children themselves.
Although it may be tempting to reply to rude or abusive
comments, etc. it is usually better to just ignore the
person. In some cases, bullies have created fake accounts
on social networks, pretending to be their victim. If you
discover someone has created an account pretending
to be you, report it immediately to the network’s
administrators. There is usually a Report button on the
user profile page.

What is Phishing?
Phishing is the process of trying to find private information such
as PIN numbers, passwords and usernames by trickery. Sometimes
spammers create fake websites that look like the Facebook login
page. When you enter your email and password on one of these
pages, the spammer records your information and keeps it.
Get Involved
When someone has been phished, their account will often start kTake the next step and create an account for yourself on
automatically sending messages or links to a large number of their the social networks your child uses. This not only helps you
friends. These messages or links are often advertisements telling to understand how things work and what features could be a
friends to check out videos or products. If you think your friend’s potential problem but it also allows you to more easily see what
account was phished, tell them to change their password and run your child is doing on there. You will be far better informed when
anti-virus software on their computer. asking questions about the site, than if you simply read about it.

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 Improving Your Google Security

Privacy Settings
kNearly all the well known social networking sites offer several
levels of privacy settings. Ensure your child selects the strongest
Blocking People on
privacy setting available when they create their account. This will
help to make sure that their personal information is only seen by Facebook
people they want to share it with. Be aware, however, that some
There may be a time when you want to block another
sites are totally open to the public.
Facebook user. There are several reasons why you might
want to do this, from unwanted messages and rude
status updates, to phishing attempts or spam.

Step 1
kClick on the account menu at the top of your profile and
select Privacy Settings. Scroll down to Blocked People
and Apps and click Manage Blocking.

Internet Safety Tips

• Make sure that your child doesn’t publish personal
information like their location, email address, phone
number or date of birth.

• Make sure they are very careful about what images

and messages they post, even among trusted friends:
Step 2
once they are online they can be shared widely and are
kEnter the name or email address of the person you want
extremely difficult to get removed.
to block and click Block. People will not be notified when
you block them.

Step 3
• Encourage your child to talk to you if they come across kIf you can’t find
anything they find offensive or upsetting. Keep a record someone using this
of anything abusive or offensive they’ve received and method, try going
report any trouble to the site management: most sites to the person’s
have a simple reporting procedure, normally activated profile (timeline) and
by clicking on a link on the page. selecting Report/Block
This Person from the
• If your child makes an online friend and wants to meet drop-down menu at
up with them in real life, you should go along with them
the top of the page.
to check the person is who they say they are.

• Tell them to be aware of online scams. Offers which

seem too good to be true usually are. Make them aware
also that clicking links they are unsure about can
be unwise.

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Get Started with Google

Protecting Your
Privacy on Google
Online privacy is an extremely important issue when it comes to using your
Google apps. Google has included a comprehensive privacy tool to help
you take control of, and monitor, how the company uses your information.
This guide will reinforce your privacy rules when using Google.

Step 1 Step 3
kStart by opening your main Google Accounts page, this can kThe Privacy Check-Up section is broken down into several sub-
be accessed by entering https://myaccount.google.com into a categories, offering you the chance to review the key settings that
browser. From the main account home page, you’re able to check determine how Google controls its activity toward you, what ads are
on the current levels of privacy, your information and security. displayed, how others will connect to you, what Google Photo settings
are available and what you share on YouTube. Click the YouTube
category, for example.

Step 2 Step 4
kThe Take the Privacy Check-Up box, located in the lower right of kThe category options are displayed as tick boxes, so, using the
the four available boxes, is a good place to start. Simply click on YouTube category as the example, you’re able to control how your
the Get Started link, at the bottom of the box, to initiate a step-by- YouTube video likes, saved playlists and subscriptions remain private,
step guide on helping you choose the right privacy settings. or are available for others to view when they click on your YouTube/
Google account. Read each element of the categories carefully to
enhance or lower your online privacy.

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 Protecting Your Privacy on Google

Step 5 Step 8
kGoing back to the main Google Account home page, by first kThe People & Sharing option, found via the left-hand column
clicking the back arrow and then Home on the left column, take again, is also worth investigating. In here, you’re able to define
a moment to look through the other options available. Check on your contacts, block any users and, most importantly, manage
the Privacy & Personalisation box; click the Manage your Data & your location sharing, as well as choose what personal information
Personalisation link in the bottom of the box. about you is visible to others across the Google services.

Step 6 Step 9
kThe Data & Personalisation category is quite expansive and kWhen dealing with your privacy via Google’s apps and services
covers a lot of the content that transpires between you and there’s a lot to take in, which isn’t surprising considering the reach
Google’s many services and apps. Each area within this category Google has across the Internet as a whole. If you ever become
can be expanded further, such as Web & App Activity, Location confused over any questions, or simply don’t know where to turn
History and so on. It’s important to take the time to trawl through next, the Help option will walk you through common issues and
these sections to fine-tune your privacy settings. offer guided steps on how to proceed.

Step 7 Step 10
kTo the left you’ll see the quick access column, where you’re able to kOne final aspect of privacy that’s worth looking up is the Google
navigate back to the Account Home page; click on the Security link. Privacy & Terms. These are in a constant state of flux and will
This will open the Security page where, in the event of someone change depending on the laws of the country in which you’re
gaining access to your Google password, you’re able to lock down currently resident. Navigate to https://policies.google.com/privacy,
your account. Here you can opt for 2-Step Verification, create an to view the latest Google Privacy Policy and see how it affects you.
Account recovery option and protect your account and its privacy.

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Get Started with Google

Improving Your
Google Searches
Google has the ability to search through billions of pages to supply
you with the most relevant results for any search you desire. Google
has different versions for different countries and, while they all work in
basically the same way, by using the version for your home country you
can be sure of both local and international results.

Google Search
Searching with Google is easy! You simply enter your
search term, e.g. “cupcake recipes”, on the Google page
for your country and click the search button. Google
will then display the results of the search in order of
relevance. There are, however, several ways to refine and
target your search for even better results.

Understanding Google Search Results

When you perform a search on Google the results are split into two categories: Paid and Organic results. Paid results can be thought of
more like adverts, with their position on the results page determined by how much the advertiser has paid. The organic results are those
which are most relevant, respected or popular for your search term.

1 Search Options 2 Paid Results 3 Organic Results

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 Improving Your Google Searches

Searching Images
and Videos
As well as being able to search for text in web pages, you can
also search for images and videos amongst other things.

The Knowledge Graph

Certain search terms (people, places or animals, for
example) will activate the Google Knowledge Graph.
This boxout, shown on the left of the standard search
results, highlights facts, photos and other snippets of Step 1
information about your search. Use this section to find kOpen the Google search page for your country in your Internet
quick information and facts about the subject or to start browser. To perform a standard search, type your search term in
exploring related subjects. Knowledge Graph results are the box and click Google Search.
gathered from a variety of sources, including Wikipedia,
World Bank, Freebase and Weather Underground, to
name but a few.

Advanced Search
After searching, while on the results page, notice the
Settings link under the search bar. Clicking this allows
you to select Advanced Search from the dropdown
menu. On the advanced search screen you can refine
your search even further so that the results only show
pages which feature all the words in your search term, or
by country and language. Once you have selected your
advanced search options, scroll to the bottom of the
page and click the blue Advanced Search button.

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Get Started with Google

Searching Images and Videos cont.

Step 2 Step 5
kTo perform a Voice kAlongside the
search, using dictation, search links (Web,
click the Microphone Images, etc.) you
icon on the right side of will see a link
the Search bar and then for Search Tools.
simply say the subject Clicking this will
you wish to search for allow you to further
on this screen, your refine your search
speech will appear on by image size, date
screen and the search it was uploaded and
will start. image type.

Step 3 Step 6
kThe results will now be displayed on screen. At the top of the kClicking on the image will open it at a larger size and also display
results page there are several links including Maps, News and a link that will allow you to open the web page where the image
Images. Click on the Images link. was found. Click the image again to close the preview.

Step 4 Step 7
kImage results for the original search term will now be displayed. kTo search for videos instead of images, click the More link and
Move the mouse over any of the images to see a short description, then select Videos from the menu that drops down. Videos have
image dimensions and other image details. their own search tools, including duration and quality.

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 Improving Your Google Searches

Step 4
Safe Search kYour browser should remember the setting when you next
Google features a Safe Search option which allows you to use Google search. If you want to make sure that the safe
select the age rating of the search results. This applies to web search setting is not changed, you will have to sign in to a
search results, as well as images, videos and books and can Google account.
help to remove sexually explicit content. No filter is 100 per
cent accurate, but Safe Search should help you avoid most of
this type of material.

Step 1
kPerform a search and check the results. If there are websites listed
that you think are inappropriate, click the Setting link in the top
right beneath the search bar and select Search Settings.

Step 2
kAt the top of the search settings screen you should see a Safe
Search on/off link. Click the turn on Safe Search link to activate it.
You can lock Safe Search on by selecting this option too.

Instant Updates
Based upon your search results, you will receive
Step 3 additional information that is relevant to the subject. For
kIf you want the page to display all results, regardless of content, this example we searched for a sports team and results
DO NOT activate Safe Search. If you have changed your mind you also shows their latest fixtures and results.
can deactivate via the Settings link at the top of the page. Specific search results also contain a downward pointing
arrow at the end of the web link, click to show these.

Cached: Google trawls the web and takes snapshots

of each page. When you click Cached, you will see the
web page as it looked when last indexed by Google. The
“Cached” link won’t appear for sites that haven’t been
indexed or for any sites whose owners requested that
their content isn’t cached.

Similar: Click Similar to see other websites that are

related to that result.

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Get Started with Google

Using Specialised
Google Search
There are several specialised search tools, letting you cut through all
the unwanted information and just see results from, for example, blogs,
shopping sites or scholarly papers. You can access these search pages at
any time from the Chrome browser or Google Home page.

Shopping Search Step 3

kClicking on one of the product sections will display a list of
This feature allows you to search only shopping results for results for that type of product. Alternatively, you can type a
any term you enter into the search box on Google. search term into the search field at the top as you would normally
in Google.
Step 1
kYou can open the Shopping search screen by typing www.
google.co.uk/shopping into your browser address field. Your
browser should automatically detect your location and filter any
results to your own currency.

Step 4
kOnce the results are shown, you will see that there are several
Step 2 filters down the left-hand side of the screen. These allow you to
kYou will see that the shopping search screen is very different filter results by specific manufacturer, price, size (depending on the
from a standard Google search screen, with products shown in product type) and several others.
sections such as electronics, clothing and even as specific as Nexus
6. What is shown depends on your search history in Google.

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 Using Specialised Google Search

Step 5 Step 7
kClick the title of a product you are interested in and a box will kYou can click directly to the item, via your preferred retailer, by
expand to show more information, including a range of prices. clicking the link from the list at the bottom of the page. NOTE: On
You can then add the item to a shortlist by clicking the Shortlist rare occasions the price linked may not match that of the retailer,
button. This allows you to refer back to it easily later. so take care to check.

Google Scholar
Search
Step 6
Google Scholar (www.scholar.google.com) provides a
kIf you click the product title a second time when the box is open,
simple way to broadly search for scholarly literature.
it will expand into a full screen page. This page lists all available
From one place, you can search across many disciplines
prices and sellers, along with reviews of the product if they are and sources: articles, theses, books, abstracts and
available online. court opinions, from academic publishers, professional
societies, online repositories, universities and other
websites. Google Scholar helps you find relevant work
across the world of scholarly research.

Features:
• Search all scholarly literature from one
convenient place
• Explore related works, citations, authors
and publications
• Locate the complete document through your library or
on the web
• Keep up with recent developments in any area
of research
• Create a public author profile

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Get Started with Google

How to Create
Google Alerts
You can use Google Alerts to monitor anything on the web and then have
links to any matching content sent directly to your email address each day,
or when new content is available.

Setting Up Alerts
Step 1 Step 3
kTo get started setting up an alert, navigate to www.google.co.uk/ kThe next step is to choose a delivery rate. The default is once a
alerts. Enter your query just as if you were doing a normal Google day: Google Alerts checks for new results once per day and emails
search. You can use the various Google search options, including you if it finds new results. Depending on the subject, Google may
quotes, minus sign, to exclude words and the site prefix to find not be able to deliver alerts daily. Alerts on these subjects will be
specific types of website. sent, when they are available for you.

Step 2 Step 4
kUsing the Show options menu, you can choose to tell Google kTo help you avoid an alert email full of low quality results, you
to only provide content of a specific type (videos, for example) or can change the volume of the alerts to “Only the best results”. This
you can request that every type of result is sent to you. Everything allows Google to filter results to those most relevant to your query
alerts include results from Google Web Search, Google Blog Search and those of high quality. If you prefer, you can change this setting
and Google News. to “All results”.

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 How to Create Google Alerts

Step 5
kEnter the email address to which you want your alerts delivered.
Google will protect your email address and will not use it to spam
you with offers for any other product or service. If you aren’t signed
in to a Google Account when you create an alert, Google will send
you a verification email.

Manage Google Alerts

Users with Google Accounts can view, create, edit and
Step 6
delete their alerts using the Manage your Alerts page.
kIf you prefer, and if you are signed in to a Google account when
Click on the Edit button and you will be able to alter
creating the alert, you can choose to have the results sent via an any of the original settings using the simple drop-down
RSS feed. Simply sign in and choose the Feed option in the Deliver menus. You can manage alerts for more than one email
to field. You can read your feed in any RSS feed reader. address by adding your other email address to your
existing Google Account. To add an email address to your
Google Account, visit your Google account page and use
the Email addresses section.

Step 7
kTo view any of these Google Alerts, you have to open your
email application and check the email addresses that you linked
to your Google Account during initial set up. You can check
this information at anytime via your account link, top right of
your browser.

Delete Google Alerts

Should you find the info you are looking for or simply tire
of the subject matter of your alerts, you can delete your
alerts subjects, one by one. To do this open the main
Google Alerts pages via this link: www.google.com/alerts.

At the top of the page notice your alert subjects. You can
edit these by tapping the pencil icon or delete them by
tapping the Bin icon. Please note you are not given any
confirmation window, the alerts are deleted instantly.

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Get Started with Google

How to Personalise
Google Trends
The Google Trends app brings you the world’s most popular search terms or
topics. Breaking down the results by country and region, while also offering
insights and keeping you updated to the latest trends. Users can also browse
history data giving you a clearer view of the world’s online habits.

Step 1 Step 3
kNavigate to the Google trends website trends.google.com to be kIn the search bar, enter your term and click on the magnifying
presented with this home page. This is a far complex application glass to activate your search. Some will bring a variety of different
so be advised to take a few moments to get used to the layout searches or similar terms, if this is the case a drop down menu will
and the control options you will find here. appear enabling you to select specifically for your choice.

Step 2 Step 4
kScrolling down through the home page you will find the various kYour search will show your results as follows; location, time
options including latest stories, insights and updates, historical period, search type and category. You can adjust each of these as
data and recently trending search results. We will look at all of you wish to further focus your results. For example you may wish
these but to start let’s focus on the main search bar. to check Shopping when looking for most popular selling item etc.

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 How to Personalise Google Trends

Step 5 Step 8
kYour results will also be broken down by sub region for your area kOne of the best features of this app is the ability to compare two
of search. With the most popular area listed first and so on. Notice topics and how the results match up with one another. You can
that related searches and queries are also listed here. You can share add various terms to compare and once again these results can be
each of these search results by clicking the top right share icon. downloaded as a csv doc or shared via the linked icons.

Step 6
kIf you are looking for an online time machine, Google have one
right here for you. On the home screen, scroll down and select the
year you wish visit and you will be given the most popular search
terms from that time period, spread across numerous categories.

Step 9
kYou can also subscribe to a regular (weekly or monthly) email
which will send you updated data based your key search terms, to
Step 7 sign up click the + icon bottom left and enter the terms you wish
kAll the information found via this app can exported from the to follow. Now simply wait for your email update to arrive.
web browser to a large variety of spreadsheet software, including
Microsoft Excel and Apple’s Pages. To save your information as a
csv doc click the download icon (an underlined down arrow).

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Get Started with Google

Getting Started
with Chrome
Google Chrome is much more than an alternative web browser. If you are
looking to use the Google app suite to any degree we strongly advise you
to download Chrome now!

1 6
3 4
7 5
2

1 Tabs 3 Omni Box/Address Box

kJust like almost all other browsers, Chrome lets you open kThis is where the URL of the current website is shown. You can
multiple web pages at once and display them in tabs. Simply use the Omni box to either type a full URL or type a search term.
click on any tab to display the page. To add a new tab, click on Type a URL and press Return and that web page will open. If you
the small tab to the right of the last one. To remove a tab, click type a search term, Google search results will be shown instead.
the small X on the right of the tab you want to close. You can also You can change the default search engine that is used in
manage tabs from the Chrome options menu. Settings > Search.

2 Navigation Controls 4 Bookmark Button

kFrom left to right, the main buttons you use when navigating kClicking on the star while viewing any web page will open a small
web pages using Chrome are: Back, Forward, Refresh and Home. bookmark option window. This allows you to choose a name for
Click and hold on both the Back and Forward buttons to see your the bookmark, as well as selecting where to save it. If the star is
recent navigation history. The Home button may not be displayed golden, that means you have already bookmarked the page you
here on a brand new install of Chrome but you can turn it on in are viewing. By using the Bookmark Button you will be able to
the settings (Appearance > Show Home Button). compile a listing of all your favourite websites in a single place.

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 Getting Started with Chrome

5 Extensions
kMany different pieces of software will add extensions to the
Installing Chrome
browser, allowing you to perform specific tasks while viewing You may find that Chrome is preinstalled on many new
websites. The extension shown here is the AVG toolbar, installed computers but if not, here is how to install it yourself.
as part of the AVG antivirus software. You can disable or remove
Chrome browser extensions simply by right-clicking on the icon Step 1
and choosing from the Action menu. kVisit www.google.co.uk/chrome/browser/desktop/
index.html and click on the Download Now button to get
the Chrome installer. You can choose to make Chrome
6 Chrome Options your default browser at this point or you can change that
kThis is where you will find all of the controls and settings for setting later.
Chrome, from basic display settings to advanced developer tools.
You can also manage your bookmarks, extensions and search
history from here. We will look at the Chrome Options in more
detail later.

7 Bookmarks Bar
kThis bar is turned off by default, so must be activated in the
Settings if you want to use it. When saving bookmarks, you have
the option to Save to Bookmarks Bar. Any pages saved to this will
be shown as quick links in the bar. This is very useful for saving
those websites you use most often. Depending on the length of
the title you give the bookmarks, only about five or six links will be
visible here; the remainder are displayed in a drop-down menu.

Chrome
Requirements Step 2
kOnce the download is complete, Chrome will install
automatically. When the installation is complete, a
Chrome is fairly lightweight, so it should run happily
Chrome browser window will open, giving you the
even on an old computer. Here are the bare minimum
requirements for PC users. opportunity to take a tour of Chrome’s main features; and
that’s it, simple eh?
Operating System: Windows XP, Vista, 7 or 8
Processor: Intel Pentium 4/Athlon 64 or later
Free Disk Space: 100MB
RAM: 128MB

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Get Started with Google

Customising the
Chrome Browser
There are many different ways you can customise your Chrome
experience, from adding extensions to setting the default home page. If
you really want to make Chrome personal to you, there is no better way
than adding a theme.

Step 3
Changing the Theme kTo select and activate a theme, simply roll over the thumbnail
and click the Add to Chrome button. Your chosen theme is
Step 1 automatically downloaded, installed and activated in a few
kOpen Chrome on your computer and click on the Chrome Menu seconds (depending on your broadband connection speed). If
button in the top right corner. Look for the Chrome options link, you want to read more about a theme, roll over the thumbnail
click this and select Settings and this window will open. and then click on the text.

Step 2 Step 4
kFrom the Settings screen click on Themes from the Appearance kThemes you download aren’t saved on your computer, so
options. This will take you to the Chrome Web Store, which applying a new theme will overwrite the previous one. You can
shows web apps and extensions. To view the available themes, remove a custom theme at any time by clicking the Chrome
scroll down to the left-hand menu and click the Themes link. A options button, then selecting Settings. Under the Appearance
selection of themes will now be displayed on screen. heading you will see the option to Reset to Default Theme.

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 Customising the Chrome Browser

Open a Specific Page or Set of Pages

Change the Default kYou can use this option to set a single web page to open

Home Page whenever you start Chrome. This could be the Google home
page for your country, the Facebook login or any other web page
Chrome gives you several choices for what you see when you you choose. You can also choose a set of pages to open. Click Set
start it up. You may decide that you want to always open with Pages and enter the URLs of the sites you want to open. They will
the Google home page or you may want to show a selection of each open in a separate tab when you start Chrome.
your most visited sites. All of these options are accessed through
Options > Settings > On Startup.

Open the New Tab Page

kThis option will display a grid of eight website thumbnails. Each
thumbnail relates to one of your eight most visited web pages.
Click on any of the thumbnails to go to the page. You can remove
any of the thumbnails by hovering the mouse pointer over it and
then clicking the X that appears in the top right corner.

Continue Where I Left Off

kIf this option is enabled, Chrome will always start up showing
the website and tabs you were viewing when you last closed the
browser. If you close all of the open tabs individually, rather than
clicking the X at the top right to close the entire browser window,
when you open Chrome again it will display the New Tab page.

Show the Home

Button
When you first install and use Chrome, you will probably
notice that there is no Home button in the toolbar. We
don’t really understand why Google chose to hide the
Home button but you can activate it easily, so it’s not
too much of a problem. To activate the Home button,
click the Options button and select Settings. Under the
Appearance heading, check the box next to Show Home
Button. You can choose which page is displayed when the
Home button is clicked (the New Tabs page or another of
your choice).

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Get Started with Google

How to Save and

Sync Chrome
If you use Google Chrome on any device other than just your computer,
the ability to sync the browser is a great feature. Chrome lets you save
bookmarks, preferences, themes and even extensions and then share
those changes with all your mobile devices quickly and easily.

Signing in to Chrome
Before you can sync your Chrome settings, you will need to sign in using a common Google account.

Step 1 Step 3
kOpen Chrome on your computer and click on the Chrome kA Sync Settings windows should now open but if not, go
User button in the top right corner. Now follow the on-screen to Chrome Menu > Settings > Advanced Sync Settings. Here
instructions and sign into your account. Click this and a new you can select what is synced between devices. Click on Sync
window will open. Everything and choose what to sync.

Step 2 Step 4
kYou will now need to sign in using the Google account that kYou can also choose to encrypt your synced data. By default,
you use on your other devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.). You your Google Account password is used to encrypt saved
probably only have one account but if you have more than one, passwords. If you want, change this to encrypt all your synced
make sure you check this. data and then create a custom passphrase for encryption.

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 How to Save and Sync Chrome

Step 3
kOn Chrome for Android,
tap the Menu button
> Settings > Sign in to
Chrome. Once signed in,
tap Sync and make sure
the Open tabs checkbox
is selected. You should
now be ready to go.

Step 4
kOpen a new tab on your computer by clicking the New Tab

Signing Out of Chrome button or Ctrl+T. In the lower right corner of the screen, click Other
devices and click the tab you want to open on the current device.
You can disconnect your Google account from Chrome
and stop syncing with your other devices at any time.
Disconnecting your Google account won’t wipe the data
stored on your computer or in your Google account.
However, any future changes you make on your
computer will not be reflected on other computers or
devices that you have signed in to Chrome on.

Syncing Open Tabs

You can disconnect your Google account from Chrome and stop
syncing with your other devices at any time. Disconnecting your
Google account won’t wipe the data stored on your computer or
in your Google account. However, any future changes you make
on your computer will not be reflected on other computers or
devices that you have signed in to Chrome on.

Step 1
kBefore you can
sync open tabs Step 5
between devices, kOpen tabs are grouped together by devices. You can hide a
you will need to specific one by disabling tab syncing on that particular device. To
make sure that the temporarily hide a device, right-click its name and select Hide.
setting is enabled
on both devices.
Sign in to Chrome
using the same
Google account
on the devices you
want to sync.

Step 2
kCheck your sync
settings on each
device. Open the
Chrome Menu >
Settings, click the
icon to the right of
the Sync opinion
and then check
Open Tabs.

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Get Started with Google

Using the Chrome

Web Store
The Chrome Web Store gives you the option of adding thousands of
different themes and extensions to your browser. Here’s how to get started
with apps and extensions on Chrome.

Step 2
kClick on the lower right side of the Chrome Web Store icon
to open it. The web store home screen shows a selection of
popular and trending themes. Roll over any of the images to
read a short description. To see more details, click anywhere on
the description or theme title.

Chrome Themes
Chrome Extensions are web-based programmes that are
designed to be used entirely within the browser. Using
apps, you can do things like create documents, edit photos
and listen to music, without having to install complicated
third-party software on your computer. Themes on the other
hand are purely aesthetic as they change the look of the
Chrome browser and do not add any further functionality.
Think of Themes as a way of injecting a little extra bit of your
personality into your web browser. Step 3
kTo install a theme, click on the Add to Chrome button. Your
Step 1 new theme will instantly install and be present within your
kYou can access the Web Store easily by clicking on the Apps current Chrome Browser window. You can also share themes
Icon in the top left area of the page when you start Chrome. with others by clicking on the Share button next to the Add to
The Apps page will slide into view, displaying any apps you Chrome button; or Launch Theme button if already installed.
currently have installed (Gmail and YouTube for example). Choose the Share method from the list.

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 Using the Chrome Web Store

Step 3
Chrome Extensions kRoll over any of the extension images to read a short
Extensions are extra features and tools that you can add to description. To see more details, click anywhere on the
Google Chrome. Using extensions, you can customise Chrome description or extension title. You can then read an overview,
with the features you want or need, while keeping your browser details, reviews and see related software. To install an extension,
free of things that you don’t. Some extensions add buttons next click on the Add to Chrome button.
to the address bar to let you know about certain events. For
instance, you can use the Google Mail Checker to get alerts about
new emails. Some extensions act like shortcuts. For example, if
you use a feed reader, the RSS Subscription Extension lets you
know if there’s a feed for the site you’re on. Click the small icon
that appears in the address bar to quickly subscribe to the feed.
Here’s how to find and install extensions to Google Chrome.

Step 1
kYou need to return to the Web Store, following the same
process as previously covered. Once again the Apps page will be
the first thing you view, displaying any apps you currently have
installed. Unlike apps, extensions will not be displayed here. Step 4
kWhen you have
confirmed you wish
to save it, your new
extension will be
downloaded and
appears as a small icon
at the top right of the
screen. To open this
simply click on the icon.

Step 2
kClick on the Chrome Web Store icon to open it. The web
store Home screen shows a selection of popular and trending
extensions and themes. To view available extensions, click the
Extensions link at top left. An extended menu will then allow
you to choose a category.

Manage the Toolbar

You can rearrange and customise how the extensions are
displayed in the toolbar. To rearrange the icons, simply
drag extension icons next to the address bar to rearrange
them on the browser toolbar. If you want to see more
extension icons on the browser toolbar, you can expand
the extension icon area. Click the right border of the
address bar and drag it to the left. Similarly, to hide extra
extensions, extend the address bar by dragging its right
border to the right. You can click the arrow button next
to the Chrome menu to see your extra extensions (if they
display icons).

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Get Started with Google

How to Use
Chrome Plug-ins
Plug-ins are essential pieces of software that help the browser to read
and display certain types of content. Unlike extensions, which add
extra features to Chrome, plug-ins are essential to the smooth running
of the browser. Here’s how to check, install, block and disable plug-ins
for Chrome.

Step 3
Installing Plug-ins kOnce the download has finished, restart Google Chrome by
closing all open windows to complete the installation process.
Step 1 This is an important step as Chrome needs to be restarted or it
kAssuming that you allow websites to use plug-ins, if Google will continue to look for the plug-in you just downloaded.
Chrome detects that you’re missing a particular plug-in for a
page you are trying to view, you will see a prompt to install the
plug-in at the top of the web page.

Step 2 Step 4
kClick Install plug-in in the message dialog. Some plug-ins begin kNOTE: It is not unusual that a previously installed Chrome Plug-
the installation process by downloading a setup file to your in will require an update to enable functionality. These updates
computer. For those plug-ins, make sure that you confirm the will require you to manually agree to re-install the plug-in, by
download by clicking Save in the downloads bar that appears. downloading the new version, via the same process detailed above.

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 How to Use Chrome Plug-ins

Step 3
Blocking Chrome’s kTo block the website(s) that are causing you an issue with the

Plug-ins a specific plug, such as Flash Player for example, click the Add
button and enter the URL of the site that has issues and then
Click Add again to complete the process.
Step 1
kPlug-ins are allowed by default. However, since they can
occasionally be a security risk, Google Chrome blocks plug-ins
that are outdated or not widely used. Examples include Java,
RealPlayer, QuickTime and Shockwave. You can also block all
plug-ins on a one by one basis.

Step 4
kIf you have used previous versions of the Chrome browser you
may notice that you are unable to completely disable a plug-in
in the current Chrome build. You are able to block plug-ins as
detailed here and there is no limit on the number of sites you
can add to the blocked list.

Step 2
kTo block plug-ins, click the Chrome menu and select Settings.
Click Show advanced settings and in the Privacy section click
the Content settings button. Click the arrow to the right of the
plug-in and select which sites you wish to block from its use.

Chrome Plug-ins
Whether using Windows, Linux or Mac, Chrome supports
many of the most popular and widely used plug-ins.

These include:
• Adobe Flash Player • Adobe Reader
• Java • Windows Media Player
• Real PlayerQuickTime • QuickTime
• Microsoft Silverlight

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Get Started with Google

Setting Up
Chrome Autofill
Some of the most useful features of Chrome, like Chrome Autofill, are easy
to set up and can make browsing the Internet a much quicker experience,
particularly if you find yourself forever filling out online forms.

Step 1 Step 3
kThe first time you fill out a form, Google Chrome automatically kIf your Chrome Autofill information is correct, you don’t need
saves the contact information that you enter, like your name, to do anything more. If you have changed address recently, or
address, phone number or email address, as an Autofill entry. some of the other information has changed, it can be frustrating
You can store multiple addresses as separate entries. for Chrome to keep suggesting the wrong info.

Step 4
kTo manage your Autofill entries, open Chrome and click on
Step 2 the menu button in the top right corner (icon with the three
kChrome can also save your credit card information, with your dots in a column). Select Settings and then click Advanced at
permission. When you do this on a form, Chrome asks you at the the bottom of the page. Find the Passwords and forms section
top of the page whether you’d like to save the information. and click Autofill settings.

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 Setting Up Chrome Autofill

Step 5 Step 6
kIf you have more than one Autofill entry, click the one you want kTo remove an entry, click on it in the Autofill settings and
to edit and then click the Edit button that appears to the right of it. then click the X that appears to the right of the entry. If you
Complete or edit the information form and then click OK to finish. want to disable Chrome Autofill altogether, you can do so by
You can also Add a completely new address using the button here. unchecking the box next to the option in the Chrome settings.

Step 7
kNow, when you start filling out a form, the Autofill entries that
match what you’re typing appear in a menu. Select an entry to
automatically complete the form with information from it. This
allows you to have multiple entries in Autofill.

Trusted Sites
It’s important that you use Autofill only on websites
you trust, as certain websites might try to capture
your information in hidden or hard to see fields. Some
websites prevent browsers from saving text that you’ve
entered, so Google Chrome won’t be able to complete
forms on those sites.

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Get Started with Google

Chrome Tips
and Tricks
Even if you have been using Chrome for a while, there are probably dozens
of tricks that you never even knew were possible. Here are a few tips and
tricks to get you started.

Chrome-Casting Your Screen Chrome Keyboard Shortcuts

kHave you ever been browsing online and stumbled upon a kThere are several useful keyboard shortcuts for Chrome.
video, or photograph, that you want to share with those around Remember that the browser window must be currently selected
you on the big screen of your family TV? With the additional for these to work.
purchase of a Google Chromecast
you will be able to do just that, Ctrl+Shift+N New Incognito Window
by casting content from your Alt+Home Load your Home Page
Chrome browser, on your Ctrl+T Open a new tab
desktop or mobile devices, Ctrl+Shift+T Open most recently closed tab
to your TV. The quickest Ctrl+Tab Scroll through open tabs
way to do this, on your Ctrl+J Opens your downloads screen
desktop device, is by
right-clicking on the
Chrome window
and then clicking on
“Cast”. On a mobile,
tap the Three dot icon,
top right of the Chrome
app, and tap “Cast”.

Incognito Window Chrome Task Manager

kThere are several ways to open a new incognito window for kThe Task Manager is a useful tool to see how much memory
Chrome. If you have a Chrome shortcut pinned to the task bar, your currently open tabs and browser plug-ins are using. To open
you can right-click it and select New Incognito Window. You the task manager, right-click the top of the browser window
can also click the Settings menu button at the top right of the and select Task Manager from the menu. Highlight one and click
browser window and select the same. The quickest way to do it End Process to stop it running. You can also press Shift + Esc as a
however, is to use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + N. Content quicker way to bring up the Google Chrome Task Manager.
displayed in an incognito window will not show up in your
browser history, nor will cookies be saved.

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 Chrome Tips and Tricks

Spring Cleaning Pinning Tabs

kTo delete cookies, click on the menu button and go to Settings. kAnother useful thing you
Scroll down to the Privacy section, and click Content Settings. can do with tabs is pin them.
Now you can click Remove All or Remove Individual Cookies. To Pinning tabs means that
clear more data such as the Google Chrome browsing history whatever is shown on the
and cache, click the Tools icon and select Clear Browsing Data. tab when it is pinned will
To clear the most visited websites that appear on your Google automatically be loaded
Chrome Start page, you must clear your browsing history using when you next open a new
the method already described. Clearing your Google Chrome Chrome browser window. To
browser history will also stop matches from previously browsed pin a tab, right-click on it and
sites appearing as suggestions in your address bar. select Pin Tab from the menu.
Pinned tabs appear smaller in
the row than unpinned tabs.
To unpin a tab, simply repeat
the process and select Unpin
Tab from the menu.

Start-up Preferences
kBy default, when launching a new window in Chrome, the
browser displays the New Tab page, which is a blank tab with
links to your most visited websites. It is possible to customise this.
Adjust Text Size Click the Settings icon and select Settings. Under the On start-up
kHaving trouble reading small text on a page in Chrome? No section, choose the ‘Open a specific page or set of pages’ radio
problem! Chrome lets you easily zoom both in and out, increasing button and click the Set pages link next to it. Then, either click ‘Use
or decreasing the size of both text and images. You can do this a current pages’ or type an address to set an alternative home page.
couple of ways. The first is to click the Settings menu button and
use the Zoom controls you find there. An easier way to do it is to
hold Ctrl and use the scroll wheel on your mouse to zoom in and
out; as you do this, a small window will pop out of the address bar
to show you the level of zoom.

Syncing Chrome
kWith Chrome’s sign in feature, you no longer need to fret
about your bookmarks or apps being stuck on one computer.
When you sign in to the Chrome browser or a Chrome device,
your bookmarks, extensions, apps, theme and other browser
preferences are saved and synced to your Google Account. You
Rearrange Tabs can then load these settings any time you use Chrome on other
kIf you have several tabs open in Chrome, you can rearrange computers and devices. Signing into Chrome also makes using
them easily by simply clicking on a tab and dragging it along Google services, like Gmail, YouTube and Maps easier since you
the row to the position you want. If you want to open one of the generally only need to sign in once from your browser.
tabs as a separate window, click on it and drag it to the desktop.
Release the mouse button and a new window will open. Right-
click on any tab to see the tab options menu. Here you can reload
tabs, close all tabs to the right of the selected one and even
reopen closed tabs (Chrome remembers the last ten closed tabs).

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 Using Google Apps

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 Using
Google
Apps
The Google app suite contains some of
the world’s most popular and widely
used applications. Offering alternatives
to operating staples such as email, maps,
calendar, photo editing and so much
more. Having set up your Google account,
you can then access the entire suite for
free. Over the following pages, we will take
you through our expert tips to ensure that
you make the very best of each one.

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Using Google Apps

Get Started
with Gmail
Gmail is an integral element of the Google app suite, an email platform
that works seamlessly on whichever OS you use, quickly becoming a key
part of your daily routine.

4
5
1

2
3

1 Mailboxes
Creating a Gmail kThese links let you display the messages in those mailboxes.

Account A number next to any mailbox shows the amount of unread

messages, rather than the total amount in the mailbox.

You can either connect a Gmail account to your main

Google account or you can create a completely new 2 Labels
account from scratch. If you connect an account, you will
be able to use your new Gmail address or your original kLabels allow you to categorise your messages into various pre-
Google account email to sign in. set or custom folders. You can save messages under more than
one label for better cross-referencing.

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 Get Started with Gmail

Gmail on Android & iOS

You can download the Gmail app for mobile devices, free
of charge, from the Play Store or App Store. This allows
you to use Gmail on the go.
Once downloaded, the app should automatically sign
in using the same Google account details you entered on
your computer (hopefully, this is also the one with which
you set up your Android or iOS device).
You will now be able to see all of the folders and
emails you use and have sent/received on your computer,
albeit on your smartphone or tablet.

3 Chat Controls
kThis section shows a list of your available Chat contacts, as well as
containing the various chat controls: Add Contact, Status Update,
etc. You can read more about Gmail Chat later in this section.

4 Search Box
kSearch for any message or contact in your Gmail inbox. Clicking
on the small arrow at the end of the search box allows you to
How to Compose a
refine your search in several different ways.
New Mail
5 Message Controls Google has incorporated a unique way to compose a
kThis set of buttons only appears when viewing a message. They message in Gmail which allows you to retain on screen
whatever you were looking at, inbox, a message, etc.
allow you to archive, delete or report the message as spam, as well
while composing a new message in a separate window.
as letting you move the message to a particular mailbox or apply a
At the time of writing, this was still an optional feature
label. The More button reveals even more controls. but could be made standard at any time.

To activate this compose window, click the Compose

6 Conversation button and a new window will open at the bottom right
kGmail displays multiple messages from a contact in a of the Gmail window. Whatever you were viewing before
conversation format. If someone replies to your message, both the you clicked Compose will remain on screen but you can
reply and the original message are shown stacked in the window. click through into a different mailbox or open a message
You can expand the conversation to make it easier to read. without the compose window disappearing.

The new compose window contains many of the options.

7 Quick Reply Click in the To field and start to type a name or email
address to see a list of known contacts. The icons at the
kClick anywhere in this box to start a quick reply to the last message bottom let you control formatting and attachments. If
in the conversation. To Forward a message, click the Forward tab you want to switch back to the old compose method,
in the quick reply window that opens. Quick reply offers the same click the Send icon at the bottom of the window.
formatting options as creating a new message does.

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Using Google Apps

How to
Customise Gmail
Gmail works brilliantly straight out of the box. There are, however, several
things you can do to Gmail to make it suit your personal preferences more
closely, from adding a theme to customising the layout of the inbox.

Apply a Theme Step 3

kClick on any theme to activate it. You will see the background
OK, so this isn’t going to make Gmail work any better, run any change, allowing you to preview the theme without leaving the
faster or deliver emails in a different way but it does brighten themes page. If you find one you like, simply select it and then
things up a bit and makes Gmail more personal to you. click back to the inbox.

Step 1
kSign in to Gmail on your computer and open the main inbox.
In the top right corner of the page you will see the Settings
icon (the gear icon). Click this and select Themes from the listings
displayed on this page.

Step 4
kCustom themes let you get a bit more creative. Click on either
Light or Dark custom and then choose an image. You can use a
preselected image or use one of your own by clicking My Photos.

Step 2
kThe available themes are split up into categories, with basic
colour themes at the top of the page, then HD themes that use
background images, custom themes and classic Gmail themes.

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 How to Customise Gmail

Step 5
kOnce you have Chosen the Theme you wish to show on your
Google Mail page, you can also add a customisable level of blur
to the image which may make some text easier to read. To do this
click the third icon to the right of the Cancel button.

Importance Markers
How exactly does Gmail decide if an email is important
to you or not? The answer, is very cleverly and sometimes
with a bit of help from you. Gmail displays different
Customise the Inbox coloured markers next to emails to indicate different
types of messages. A yellow marker means that a
You can easily customise the main inbox to show important
message is important. An empty (white) marker means
or starred emails in a separate section at the top of the page. that the message is not seen as important.

Step 1 If you want to know why a message was classified

kLog in to Gmail and click on the main inbox to select it. With the as important, you can hover your mouse over the
main inbox displayed, hover the mouse pointer over the inbox importance marker in order to see the main reason why.
label and you should see a small, downward-pointing arrow. To teach Gmail that messages from a certain contact are
important, all you need to do is find an email from that
person and click on the unfilled importance marker.

Step 2
kClick on the arrow
to see a small menu.
Here you can choose
the way emails are
displayed in the inbox.
Roll over each of the
settings to read a short
description of how
they work.

Step 3
kChoose a display
Show or Hide Labels
option and you will On the left-hand side of the Gmail interface is a list of
see the inbox split your different mailboxes and labels. Preset mailboxes (or
into sections. At the System Labels) include Important, Starred, Sent Mail and
right-hand side of each Drafts. It is useful to have links to your labels displayed
section heading, another here, but you can hide them if you wish. Click on Settings
and then click on the Labels tab at the top of the page.
drop-down menu lets
You will see a full list of all your labels, with a show and
you further customise
hide link next to each. You can simply go down the list
the section: number of hiding those labels you don’t wish to see in the sidebar.
emails to display, etc.

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Using Google Apps

Dealing with
Gmail Spam
If you find that spam emails are still getting through the built-in filters
and being displayed with your other emails, you can do several things to
improve detection and removal of these unwanted messages.

Step 2
Do I Need to Worry kIf you want to remove the spam that is collecting in the spam
mailbox, the spam mailbox will only appear in your labels when

About Spam Emails? spam has been detected and moved into it, click the mailbox and
then click “Delete all spam messages now”.
That’s a good question with a potentially very long
answer, but in short, yes, spam email is best avoided.
Junk or spam emails are unsolicited/requested messages
sent in bulk by email.

Email spam has steadily grown since the early 1990s

and by 2014 were estimated to make up around 90%
of email messages sent. Most spam email messages
are commercial in nature and albeit harmless, they are Step 3
annoying. However, some can also be dangerous because kIf you see a message
they may contain links that lead to phishing web sites,
in the spam mailbox
or sites that are hosting malware, or include malware as
which has been moved
file attachments.
there incorrectly (i.e. it
With this in mind, it is always best to approach spam with is not spam), you can
caution and following this guide will better equip you to correct the mistake by
avoid spam as a whole. selecting it and clicking
Not Spam from the
options above it.

Report and
Remove Spam Creating Filters
Step 1 Another way to deal with unwanted emails, particularly if you
kRemoving spam from your inbox is easy. Click on the message are getting lots of emails from one particular address, is to set
you want to remove and look for the ! button above the message up a filter.
box. Clicking this will remove the spam message and report it
to Google. Step 1
kOpen the inbox and find a
message from the contact
you want to filter. Click on
the message to open it. Click
on the More button to the
right of the buttons above
the message, and select Filter
Messages Like These from
the menu.

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 Dealing with Gmail Spam

Step 2
kIn the box that appears,
the email address of the
sender will be automatically
entered. You can add extra
triggers to the filter such as
certain words or recipient
addresses. Next, click Create
filter with this search.

Step 3
kYou can now decide
what to do with messages
that trigger this filter. There
are numerous options, and
not just options for spam
messages. For
the purpose of this guide,
choose Delete it. Click
Create Filter to finish.

What is Phishing?
Phishing is the process of trying to find private
information such as PIN numbers, passwords and user
names by trickery. Sometimes spammers create fake
websites that look for example, like a well-known bank’s
login page. You will then get an email pretending to
be from that bank, asking you to confirm your login
or change some settings by clicking a link to the fake
Protect Your Email website. When you enter your email and password
on one of these pages, the spammer records your

Address information and keeps it.

Remember that banks or credit card companies will never

One of the very best ways of ensuring that spam does ask you to email them your password or click on links
not become the bane of your life is to protect your email in emails. If you are in any doubt as to the legitimacy of
at all times. Entering your email address onto websites an email and the links within, the first thing to check is
that you don’t fully trust or posting the address on blogs the link. Without clicking it, roll your mouse pointer over
and forums, will almost certainly lead to a whole heap of the link and look at the information that appears at the
spam heading your way. Automated software (bots) scan bottom of the browser window. This will show you the
through millions of web pages to find email addresses, actual link address, letting you check whether it looks
which are then used by spammers to flood your inbox OK. If you really want to check your online bank, open
with unwanted emails. a new browser window and navigate to your bank’s
page normally.
If you do need to write your email on a blog or forum (in
the signature for example), write it in a way that a non- If the message seems like an attempt to get your
human reader would not understand. For example, you personal information, click Report Phishing from
could write it as john dot doe at gmail dot com (instead the message options menu (arrow to the right of the
of [email protected]). A human should understand Reply button) to help Gmail and Google learn from
how to write that email address properly. such attempts.

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Using Google Apps

Instant Chat
in Gmail
You can add and chat to anyone on the Google network as long as they
are using Gmail, iGoogle, Google Talk, Google+ or a third-party client. You
can find the Google Chat controls on the left side of the Gmail window.

Step 3
Using Chat in Gmail kOnce someone has accepted your invitation (and if they are
online) you will see a status button to the left of their name in your
Step 1 chat list, which indicates whether they’re available (green); their
kBefore you can chat with someone, you need to invite them and name will show in bold if they have sent you a message.
they will need to accept the invitation. The people you invite will
see the invitation above their chat list asking if they’d like to be
able to chat with you.

Step 4
kTo chat with someone
who is available in your
list, click on their name
and a small chat window
will open in the bottom
right corner of the
Gmail window. Click the
arrow to the right of the
contact’s name to undock
Step 2 the chat window.
kPress the + icon, then in the search box at the top of this menu,
type your friend’s username. If they’re already in your Contacts,
Gmail will prepopulate their username. If they are not in your
contacts, type their email address and click Invite to Chat.

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 Instant Chat in Gmail

Step 5 Step 7
kClick in the text box at the bottom of the chat window to start kJust as we said previously, you can chat using a variety of Google
typing. You can type as much as you like, the window will just products. If, for example, you have an Android phone, you will
expand. To add emoticons, either type a recognised emoticon probably also have Google Talk. As long as they use the same
symbol or click the smiley face in the chat box. Google account, they will share contacts.

Step 6
kBy default, Gmail will store a copy of your chats in the chat
history label. These are searchable in exactly the same way as
emails. If you prefer not to keep a record of your chats, go to
Settings > Chat and turn off the option.

Chat Status
Your chat status controls your availability to chat with
your friends. You can manually enter your status which
can be viewed by all of your Chat contacts.

To change your status, click the down arrow next to your

picture in the Chat list. Select the status you’d like to
appear next to your name in your friends’ chat lists. By
creating a new status message, which appears beneath
your name in your contacts chat list, select Custom
messages from the status menu.

Your status message can be anything you want, from

your favourite quote to a simple note to say you’re hard
at work or away from the computer. To clear your custom
message, click the text under your name in Chat and
delete it or select another message from the status drop-
down menu.

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Using Google Apps

How to Use Gmail

Conversations
Gmail groups all replies with their original message, creating a single
conversation or thread. In Gmail, replies to emails (and replies to those
replies) are displayed in one place. Here’s how to use Gmail conversations
to their best advantage.

Step 1 Step 3
kWhen you open one message in a conversation, all of your kIf you like, you can change this setting so that replies aren’t
related messages are stacked neatly on top of each other, called threaded into conversations but appear as individual messages in
Conversation View. In Conversation View, each new message your inbox. To do so, go to the General tab of your Gmail Settings
is stacked on top of the ones that arrived before it, so that the and check the box next to Conversation view off.
newest message is always the one you see first.

Step 2 Step 4
kTo see all the messages in a conversation, just click the Expand kIf you’re part of a long message conversation that isn’t relevant,
all button. A conversation will break off into a new thread if the you can mute the conversation to keep all future additions out of
subject line of the conversation is changed, or if the conversation your inbox. Open or select the conversation and click the More
reaches over 100 messages. button above your messages. Select Mute from the options.

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 How to Use Gmail Conversations

Step 5
kIf you need to find a muted conversation or if you accidentally
muted a thread, don’t worry. Muted messages are not marked as
Using Gmail Keyboard
read and are still searchable. You can type is:muted into your Gmail
search box to find all muted conversations. Shortcuts
As you become more accustomed to Gmail and its many
features, the use of keyboard shorts will vastly increase
your productivity and make your Gmail user experience
far easier.

How to turn on Gmail keyboard shortcuts

Click the gear in the top right corner of Gmail and, from
Step 6 there, select the Settings link. Then click on General,
kConversation View in Gmail can be confusing at times. scroll down to the Keyboard shortcuts section and switch
To make things clearer and focus on a single reply, you can open them on. Finally, select Save Changes at the bottom of
a single email from a conversation string. To do this, open the the page.
Conversation and click on the top-right options Arrow (next to
the Reply button). Gmail Keyboard Shortcuts
Shift + Esc: Focus on the main window
Esc: Focus on the latest chat or compose
Ctrl/Cmd +.: Advance to next chat or compose
Ctrl +,: Advance to previous chat or compose
Ctrl/Cmd + Enter : Send
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + c : Add Cc recipients
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + b: Add Bcc recipients
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + f: Access custom from
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + d: Discard draft
Ctrl/Cmd + k: Insert a link
Ctrl/Cmd + ; : Go to previous misspelled word
Ctrl/Cmd + ‘ : Go to next misspelled word
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + ‘ : Open spelling suggestions
Ctrl/Cmd + Alt + . : Go to next section
Ctrl/Cmd + Alt + , : Go to previous section
Ctrl/Cmd + z : Undo
Step 7 Ctrl/Cmd + y : Redo
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + - : Decrease text size
kFrom the menu choose Print. This will open a single email in
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + +: Increase text size
a new tab or window. Close the print dialog window or press
Ctrl/Cmd + b : Bold text
escape. The tab stays open so you can refer to the email and keep Ctrl/Cmd + i : Italics text
it open. To open a whole email conversation in a new tab, press Ctrl/Cmd + u : Underline text
Ctrl when you click on the email. Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + 8: Bulleted list
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + 9: Quote
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + l : Align text left
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + e : Align text centre
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + r: Align text right
Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + x: Strikethrough
Ctrl/Cmd + \: Remove formatting
g + I: Go to InBox
g + t: Go to Sent messages
g + d: Go to Drafts
g + c: Go to Contacts
g + k: Go to Tasks

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Using Google Apps

Create Tasks
from Gmail
One of the most useful planning tools Gmail includes is the ability to
create tasks from any message you receive. This tutorial will show you how
to use this little known feature of the Gmail application to its full potential.

Step 1 Step 3
kOpen Gmail on your computer and find the email you want to kThe latest task will be shown at the top, labelled using the
create the task from. Open the email or select it by checking the subject of the email. Click on the arrow next to the task title and
box next to it in the main inbox list. Both actions will bring up you can change details such as the due date, add notes and move
several new options along the top of the email pane. it to a different task list if you have one.

Step 2 Step 4
kClick the More button at the top and then click Add to Tasks. You kTo show a task as completed in the list, check the box next to it.
can also use Shift-T. When you do this a tasks list panel will appear The task will stay in the list as a reminder. If you want to remove a
in the bottom right corner of Gmail. Any tasks you have added, task from the list, select it and click the trash icon at the bottom of
from any source, will be listed here. the Tasks pane. Once a task is removed, it cannot be restored.

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 Create Tasks from Gmail

Step 5 Step 8
kOnce you add a due date to a created task, it will appear in your kSelect the new task and type a title. Like any other task, you can
Google Calendar on that date. If you go into Calendar and can’t use the arrow to go in and set a due date and notes. Go back to
see the task, make sure that the Tasks option is highlighted in the the list and highlight the sub-task. Click Actions and then select
left-hand sidebar. You can change the colour of shown tasks using Indent. The title will indent, showing that it is part of the task
the drop down menu. above it.

Step 6 Step 9
kWhen the Tasks option is selected in Calendar, a new sidebar will kTo remove an email association from a to-do item in Gmail Tasks,
open on the right to show all tasks. You can manage tasks from highlight the desired task (click anywhere in its title, for example).
here or from in the main Calendar panel. If you don’t want the Press Shift-Enter and then click the X next to Related email option.
sidebar to be displayed, click the X to close it. Once the related email is removed, it can’t be added again.

Step 7
k Once you have created a task from an email, go back to the Tasks
panel in Gmail where you can add additional tasks as part of that
main task. To show that the task is a sub-task, you can indent it.
Click anywhere in the tasks panel and hit Enter to add a task.
Tasks Shortcuts
Using the following keyboard shortcuts can speed up the
processes above.

Shift + Enter: Enters task detail view

Esc: Exits task detail view
Space: Marks a task complete or incomplete
Enter: Enters inline edit mode
Backspace: Deletes a task
Alt + Up: Moves selected task up
Alt + Down: Moves selected task down

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Using Google Apps

Schedule Your
Gmail Messages
With an additional bit of software, Gmail can be set up to send specific
emails at scheduled times. This is particularly useful if you are sending
emails to recipients in different time zones.

Step 1 Step 3
kThe first thing you need to do is download and install the kFrom the popup menu, schedule the sending time with either
Boomerang software for Gmail. Open your Chrome browser and the handy calendar picker or text box. The smart menus display
search for “Boomerang for gmail” or point your browser to www. your most frequently used scheduling times for easy access.
boomeranggmail.com. In addition to letting you schedule emails, Boomerang will then automatically send your message at the
Boomerang offers several other features that we will look at here. chosen time, without you having to worry about it.

Step 2 Step 4
kWith Boomerang installed you will see a new Send Later button kYou can also set up email reminders. This means taking messages
with a Boomerang icon. You can now write an email when it’s out of your inbox until you actually need them. At the scheduled
convenient, then schedule it to send automatically. Just write the time you chose, the software will bring it back to your inbox,
message as you normally would, then click the Send Later button. marked unread, starred or even at the top of your message list.

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 Schedule Your Gmail Messages

Step 5 Step 2
kThis function is useful to remind yourself about stuff that is weeks kYou can schedule your follow-up message as you’re writing
or months away but you may forget why you wanted to keep it the original email. If the person replies to your original email,
in the first place. You can attach a note to the message as you Boomerang will detect the response, and will not send the second
schedule it. When the message returns to your inbox, your note email. If they don’t reply, the software will send the follow-up
will be added to the email thread. message automatically, without you having to think about it.

Step 3
kYou can also send recurring emails. All you have to do is write
a message as you normally would, then click Schedule Recurring
Message from the bottom of the Send Later menu. From the
menu, you can then choose the start date, frequency, day of the
week to send and end date.

Boomerang Extras
Boomerang is a useful and rather powerful tool that can
play an increasingly important part in how you use your
Gmail account. Here we will be looking at some of the extra
functionality it offers.

Step 1
kOne of Boomerang’s other useful features is tracking responses.
When writing an email, you can set Boomerang to give you a
reminder if you don’t get a reply after a certain amount of days. If
the message comes back to your inbox without a response, you
can then react by sending another email to follow up.

Step 4
kTo remove Boomerang from your computer, first uninstall the
plug-in from your browser. Now revoke Boomerang’s access to
Gmail data. Right click the Boomerang icon in your browser and
click Manage Extensions. Now disable Boomerang and then click
the Bin icon to delete it.

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Using Google Apps

Gmail User Tips

and Tricks
You can be up and running with the basic Gmail in seconds, or you can
spend ages customising it and getting it set up in several different ways.
Even if you have been using Gmail for a while, there are probably dozens
of tricks that you never even knew were possible.

Add Stars to Messages Customise Display Density

kYou can mark a conversation or message that appears next to kGmail automatically adjusts
the item in your inbox with a star. Stars can be an eye catching the amount or “density” of
way to mark a special message or even a great visual reminder to information on a page when
follow up on an item later. Stars will only appear to you and not you adjust your browser
to anyone else, so you won’t offend your friends by starring their window or when you use
messages rather than reading them. To star a message from your different sized screens. If you
inbox, just click the Star icon next to the sender’s name. You can prefer a denser view whatever
also add a star when reading a message by clicking the icon on size your monitor, you can
the top right of the message. set a limit on your Default
Density. This setting reflects
the lowest density (the most
space) permitted for your
account. Choose how many
messages are on your screen
at a time by clicking on the
gear icon and then selecting
from Comfortable, Cosy
or Compact.

Voice and Video Chat

kWith Gmail, you can now use voice and video chat services such
as Google+. From within these services, you can have an actual
conversation with someone or even chat face-to-face over video.
To get started, download the voice and video chat plug-in from
www.google.com/chat/video, quit all open browser windows and
install the plug-in. Sign in to Gmail, Google+ or Chrome OS device.

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 Gmail User Tips and Tricks

Labelling Your Emails Search Your Mail

kLabels help you organise your messages into categories such kIt can be a pain to scroll through hundreds of old emails just
as work, family, to-do, read later, jokes, recipes, etc. Labels do all to find the one you need, which is why you might want to
the work that folders do but with the added bonus that you can try searching for it instead. For example, if you’re looking for a
add more than one to a message. Only you can see your labels, so message that contains the word “shopping”, simply type “shopping”
whether you mark a message with “Best friend” or “Read later”, the in the search field and click the Search button. Your results will
sender will never know. You can create a new label for a message be displayed with your search results and within the message
in your inbox by selecting the box next to the message, clicking highlighted in yellow. If you’re having trouble finding the result
the Label button above your message list and then clicking you want, you can refine your query by clicking the small arrow in
Create New. the search box and entering your criteria in the appropriate fields.

Clean Up Your Inbox

kYou can use the Move To button at the top of your inbox to easily
move a message out of your inbox and add a label at the same
time. If you have lots of labels, you can pick the one you want by
typing the first couple of characters and letting auto-complete
find the right one, or alternatively create a new one.

Instant Unsubscribe
No matter how much you try to stop them, if you have
purchased something online or sign up for something
free you will be most likely added to a mailing list.
Said lists are often a very valuable tool, alerting you to
possible special offers and updates on a subject that
interests you. Alas most are not and are simply random
filler for your inbox. When you receive such an email, and
you wish to make it your last from the sender, look to
the sender address at the top of the email. Here you will
notice the Unsubscribe link. Click this link and confirm
by pressing the blue button to stop receiving email from
this sender.

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Using Google Apps

Improving the
Google Calendar
Google’s free online calendar app is perfect for keeping track of all the
important events in your life. And if you use other Google products such
as Android or Gmail, you can set things up so that everything integrates
and syncs perfectly and with barely any effort.

Using Quick Add

Creating Events kTo use Quick Add simply type “Q” while you’re in Calendar. Quick
There are three ways to create a new event on the desktop version Add can almost read your mind. If you type in something like
of Google Calendar. Which method you use depends entirely on “Lunch with Dad at The Ivy 1pm Friday”, Quick Add can figure out
which you find easiest or most convenient. what you mean and pop the new event right onto your calendar.
Just remember that for Quick Add to work at its best, you need to
include: what, event title, e.g. lunch; when, time and date or day;
who, if there is anyone else to include in the event; and where,
location of the event.

Click on the Date

kOpen the Google Calendar screen and scroll to the date and
time where you want to mark an event. If you need to look far
ahead, click on the month view button at the top of the screen.
You can then scroll through whole months by clicking the forward
and back arrows, also at the top. If in Week view, you can click and
drag on the event location if you want it to spread over more than
a single hour. If in Month view, you only have the option to click,
although you can change the length of the event afterwards. Type
the title and event time for your new event in the box. Finally, click
Create event to publish the event to your calendar immediately or
click Edit event details to add additional information.

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 Improving the Google Calendar

Click the Create Button

kJust click on the Plus sign in the bottom right of your Calendar
window, this will bring you to a page where you can enter as
Create a New Calendar
much information as you’d like about your event. On this page, With Google Calendar you are not restricted to having
you can also add guests, change a reminder setting and publish one calendar crammed with all your birthdays, events,
your event to other users. Once you’ve entered the appropriate appointments and holidays. To make things less messy, it
information and selected the desired settings, click Save. is possible to create several calendars if, for example,
you want to keep personal and business entries
completely separate.

Step 1
kAt the left-hand side of the Google Calendars screen,
look for the section labelled My Calendars. Click on the
small arrow button and select Create New Calendar.

Step 2
Using Google Tasks kGive your new calendar a title and write a description
kYou can access Google Tasks directly from the Calendar if you wish. The location box is useful if the calendar is to
application. By linking these apps together you can quickly work be public, as it makes it easier for your friends or family
between the two as follows. Open Google Calendar and log in if to find events on it.
required. Now click the Tasks icon from the sidebar found on the
right hand side of the window. Click Add a task and then start to
enter your details via the new task link in Google Calendar.
You can now add tasks to this listing. You can directly add
an item from this list to your Calendar by choosing a date in the
properties of the task itself. You can edit a task directly from the
Calendar app by clicking the pencil icon. From this link you can
add a description, change the details and move or delete it.

Step 3
kAll of the calendars you create will be listed under My
Calendars on the left side of your page. Just click on the
name to select it. For each of the calendars, you can add,
delete and edit events any time you like.

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Using Google Apps

Sharing Your Calendar Step 3

kOnce you click Save, the person with whom you selected to
It is possible to share your different calendars with individuals share the calendar will receive an email invitation to view your
or groups. An email invitation is sent and the contact will be calendar. The person will need to click on the link contained in the
able to view your calendar alongside theirs. email to add the calendar to his/her Other calendars list.

Step 1
kLog in to your Google Calendar and look for the calendar list on
the left-hand side of the screen. Roll the mouse over the calendar
you want to share and click the small arrow button. Select Share
this Calendar from the drop-down menu.

What Platforms are

Compatible?
Google Calendar uses the iCalendar (iCal) file format to
save/share its calendars and the relevant information.
Having been created in 1988, this open source software
was quickly adopted by a wide array of developers for
use in their platform specific calendar apps. What follows
Step 2 is a listing of the platforms and applications that will be
kEnter the email address of the person with whom you want to compatible with Google Calendar files.
share your calendar. From the drop-down menu on the right side, • Apple • eM Client • Microsoft Outlook
select a level of permission (view only or view and make changes), • Yahoo! • Mozilla • Novell GroupWise
then click Add Person. Click Save to finish. • IBM

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 Improving the Google Calendar

SMS Reminders Step 3

kIf your carrier is supported, click the Send Verification Code
If you have Google Calendar on your Android smartphone, your button and you receive a text message on your phone. Once
events and reminders can be automatically synced between you receive this message, enter the code you received in the
desktop and mobile. If you don’t have Google Calendar on your Verification code field and click the Finish setup button. Click Save.
phone, it is still possible to receive reminders on your mobile.

Step 1
kThe first thing you need to do is obtain a verification code. This
will show you that your phone and carrier is capable of receiving
SMS reminders from Google Calendar. Click on the gear icon at the
top of the page and select Settings from the menu.

Step 2
kClick on the Mobile Setup tab at the top of the settings page.
Select your country from the drop-down list and then enter your
full mobile phone number. You may also need to select your
carrier from the menu that appears.

Notifications
Google Calendar offers a variety of notification options
for both email and SMS. When selected, you receive
notifications when somebody sends you invitations,
updates, replies, or cancellation messages to events.
Event organisers however may still choose not to send
these notifications when they create or change events.
If you deselect the notification options in these settings,
you won’t receive the respective notifications, even when
event creators explicitly click to send invitations
or updates.

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Using Google Apps

Get Started with

Google Maps
Google Maps is a great service that you view in your web browser or via
the app. Depending on your location, you can view basic or custom maps
and local business information, and that’s just the start. Here’s how to get
started using Google Maps.

2
6 4
5
3

1 Search Maps 2 Pan Controls

kYou can search for places (towns, cities, addresses) and kYou can use this control to move the view up, down, left and
businesses using the search box at the top of the page. Search for right. You can also scroll around the map by clicking anywhere on
a location and the view will switch to show that location. Search it (you will see the mouse pointer change to a hand) and dragging
for businesses and the view will remain the same but red dots will the map in the direction you want to move.
appear to show individual businesses. If you search for “railway This is a quick and easy way, not only to show off the impressive
stations Devon” the map will zoom to the location (Devon) and visuals this app contains but also make navigating easier too.
show all known railway stations in that area. To navigate around the world with even greater ease; press
You can also search for individual businesses by name. If there and hold the mouse button or press your finger on the touch
is more than one business with that name, a list will appear to the screen, then move the mouse or swipe around the screen. You
left of the map, showing the addresses of each of the businesses. can also press the hold the SHIFT key to hold the central position
Click on the business in the list to be taken there. and move on a point.

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 Get Started with Google Maps

3 Street View
kClick on the little man and drag him onto the map. Any road or
Your Places
street that is overlaid in blue can be viewed in Street View. You Your Places makes it easy for you to organise content
simply drop the man at the location you want to view. Once in relevant to you on Maps, including maps you have
Street View, you can split the map screen so that half shows the created with My Maps, businesses you have rated in
map view and half shows the Street View. To do this, click on the Google+ Local and locations and directions you have
box in the bottom right corner of Street View. previously searched for.

Step 1
4 Zoom Controls kTo access your content, open Google Maps and click
kClick the + and – buttons to zoom in and out of the map. You on the Your Places link. If you’re not logged in to your
can also click on the slider and drag it up and down to zoom Google account, you’ll be prompted to sign in before
more quickly. If you have a mouse with a scroll wheel on it, you continuing. Your content will appear in the left panel.
can use this to zoom in and out of the map much more easily.

5 Information Box
kMany businesses are shown on the map with an icon next to the
name, particularly restaurants, hotels and pubs. Click on the icon
to pop up the information box. This will show you the address
details, links to reviews and to a website if applicable. You can also
click the Directions link to quickly open the Route Planner menu.

Step 2
6 Map Layers/Map View kClick the tabs at the top to see specific types of
kThese controls let you switch to a flat map view, as well as add information. Your ratings, check-ins, and directions will
layers of information that can be overlaid on the map. These appear under the More menu. To add a Home and Work
layers include traffic, weather, webcams, photos, public transport location, click on the relevant button.
information and many others.

Step 3
kTo delete content, click on the “X” icon to the right of
MapsGL any item. Note that deleting information from the Your
Places tab will also permanently remove it from any
You now also have the option to use MapsGL. MapsGL related activities.
uses new technology called WebGL (Web-based Graphics
Library) to enhance the Google Maps experience. WebGL
brings 3D graphics to your browser without the need to
install additional software. This allows Google to provide
seamless transitions between various levels of imagery
and different map views. You can view some buildings in
3D and parts of the map using 45 degree aerial images.
This is still a beta test of the feature, so it doesn’t work
everywhere you want to look.

MapsGL requires a certain level of specification in your

computer to work. You can check out the recommended
specifications at www.maps.google.com.

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Using Google Apps

Planning a Route
with Maps
Google Maps features a very powerful, and normally very accurate,
route planner. You can plan a route by car, on foot or even using public
transport. If you save your route to My Maps, you can easily access it again
on your mobile device.

Step 1 Step 3
kClick on the Apps icon at the top right of the Google Search kIn the start box, type the starting point for your journey. If you
home page and select Maps. The map, normally zoomed out on have added a home address to My Places, and if your journey
the country you live in, will be shown on the page and a search starts at home, you can simply type Home in the first box. If not,
box, which will act as your navigation hub. Note: If you aren’t type your preferred starting locations. This can be an address or
signed in to your Google account, do so now. even just a town or city.

Step 2 Step 4
kClick on the blue arrow on the search box. Two boxes will kType your destination in the second box. Again, this can be
appear in the blue bar, these are start and destination input an exact address or a town or city. Suggestions will appear as
points, along with buttons to choose your mode of transport. you type, so make sure you select the correct address; there will
These include travelling by car, on foot, by public transport or almost certainly be more than one instance of your street name
by bicycle. Click on the mode of transport you will be using. to be found.

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 Planning a Route with Maps

Step 5 Step 7
kWith both starting point and destination completed, Google kThe route is shown as a list of directions in the left-hand column
Maps will automatically generate your route. If you want to which is accessed by clicking the Details icon. At the top of the
include additional stopping points to your journey, click on Add list the distance and the estimated journey time is displayed. Roll
Destination and a third box will appear. Remove this box by your mouse over the list and you will see a marker displayed on
clicking the X next to it. the map at different junctions, roundabouts, etc.

Step 8
kScroll to the top of the directions list and you will see three icons,
a link to save the route to My Maps. Share the details and you can
also print directions directly by clicking the printer button. You can
choose to show the map or just the directions on your printout.

Step 6
kHaving generated your route, the map screen will zoom in to
show the complete journey highlighted in blue. You can zoom
in and out as normal if you want to get a closer look at the
route. You can also alter the route by clicking on any part of it
and dragging the blue line.

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Using Google Apps

Using Google
Street View
Street View is a feature of Google Maps that allows you to quickly and
easily view and navigate high-resolution, 360-degree street level images
of various cities around the world. With this guide you can learn the new
ways to enter Street View.

Step 1 Step 3
kTo start using Street View, open the Google Maps page by kDrop the yellow man icon onto any of these blue lines to see
clicking on the Maps link on the Google Search home page. that road in Street View. As you hold the man over a marked
Type the name of the street, town or city you want to start location, Street View image will remain static, but if you slowly
viewing in the search box at the top of the screen. move it you will get additional Street View previews.

Step 2 Step 4
kWhen the map has zoomed in to show the area you searched kWith Street View now showing, you can move around by moving
for, click and drag the little yellow man from the bottom of the the mouse pointer onto the road so that it becomes a circle and then
map zoom controls, onto the map. Blue lines will appear to show clicking. The camera will pan forward to that position. Repeating this
which streets and roads have been captured for Street View. action lets you follow roads and streets along their length.

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 Using Google Street View

Step 5 Step 7
kMove the mouse pointer up onto the side of a building and kYou can also use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out of
it turns into a rectangle. Click the mouse and the camera will the image in Street View. If you want to view the image in full
rotate to show the building centred on the screen. If, when you screen, click in the button with four arrows in the top corner of
move the pointer onto a building, it shows a magnifying glass, the window. Click the X next to that to close Street View and
you can zoom in to the image. return to the normal map view.

Step 6
kIn the corner of the Street View window is a small box showing
your position on the map. You can expand or minimise it by
clicking the icon to the bottom left. When you expand the map
box, it will split the screen with Street View. You can also quick
navigate your location by double tapping on the desired location.

Route Plan with

Street View
When using the route planner feature of Google Maps,
it is possible to have the route displayed with a Street
View image for each junction, roundabout or major
change of direction. To activate this option, plan your
route using the steps shown previously, click to print the
route and then click the Street View link at the top of the
Print screen.

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Using Google Apps

Share and
Embed Maps
Google Maps is a great tool when used on a phone or tablet for navigating
and planning a route in advance. Not only can you use this great tool
yourself, you can also share maps with others and even embed them on a
website to give your customers directions.

Step 1 Step 3
kBefore you share a map, you need to zoom and scroll until kDirections can be marked on the map, and will be shared
the area you want to share is centred on the window. Only the when you send it. Right-click on two points on the map to
visible portion is shared. You can also choose to share the map set your direction to and from those locations. Check that the
in Map view or Earth view. correct route is selected, if alternatives are available.

Step 2 Step 4
kIf you have saved favourites on a map, only you will see them. kIn the top left corner of the screen, click the Menu icon. Select
Equally, if you embed the map and view it on your site, you see Share and embed map. Check the box next to Short URL to create
your saved places on the map. Your site’s visitors won’t see those a shorter link. Double-click the link to highlight it, then copy it by
saved places, they see a map built for them. pressing Ctrl+c (or Cmd+c on Mac). Paste the link wherever you
want to share the map, like an email or Google+ post.

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 Share and Embed Maps

Step 5 Step 8
kBy using a short URL, you can squeeze a long Google Maps kEnsure that the map you’d like to embed appears in the
link into fewer characters to leave more room for other text. For current map display. Click the settings gear icon in the bottom
example, the URL http://goo.gl/l6MS is easier to share than the right. Click Share and embed map. In the box that appears,
long URL http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2009/12/making- make sure the Embed map tab is selected.
urls-shorter-for-google-toolbar.html.

Step 6
kWhen the recipient opens the email, they can paste the link into
their browser and see the map, with directions marked and listed
in a step-by-step format. They will be able to interact with the
map (choose an alternative route, etc.) just as if they created it.

Step 9
kChoose the embed size you want, then copy the HTML and
paste the code into the source code of your website or blog.
Keep in mind that traffic information and some other Maps
features may not be available in the embedded map.

Step 7
kYou can embed a basic map, driving directions or a local search
into your website or blog from the new Google Maps. When your
viewers are signed in to Google, they can also see their home and
work, saved locations and more in your embedded map.

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Using Google Apps

Explore Deeper
with Maps
From adding more detail to maps to making it more intuitive to find local
businesses, some updates may not be immediately noticeable. However, if
you know where to look, a host of new features are there to be used. Here
we take a look at using these extra options.

Step 1 Step 3
kOpen Google Maps on your desktop. The map should be kPhotos, See inside and street views can also be displayed
centred on the country you live in, even if you have not shared along the bottom of the map, by clicking the Yellow man icon.
location information with Google. Photo tours can be found Photo Spheres are marked with a small blue circle, See Inside
using the satellite imagery (Earth view). with an orange icon and street views with a circular arrow.

Step 2 Step 4
kHaving entered your search criteria, if photo tours of a kNot all areas will feature photo points. They are made available
location are available, they will be displayed as a series of photo when there are several different views of a particular area. Click
thumbnail images on the pop up left side menu. These photos on your choice of view and Google Maps will automatically swap
will show a side facing circular arrow icon in the bottom left. to that location and view, here we have selected Photo Sphere.

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 Explore Deeper with Maps

Step 5
kPhoto Sphere and See Inside are interactive still photographs
that have been uploaded to Google Maps. The latter allows you
to do exactly as one would expect and give you a view inside
the location, by simply clicking the small orange icon on the
map. To exit to Maps click the back arrow top left.

Step 7
kAnother fantastic feature
of Maps is the 3D rendered
view point you can access
in key locations by clicking
the 3D button on the
main navigation controls,
bottom right. By pressing
and holding the Control
Step 6 key you can explore
kIf you choose instead to open a photo sphere, you can use your this 3D environment at
mouse to grab and drag the image around to see a 360 degree your will.
image of a location. Photo spheres are created using a smartphone
app which, as mentioned, blends multiple photos together as one.

Step 8
kWhile in 3D mode, zoom into the screen and your viewpoint
will change from the 3D rendered background to Street View
automatically. This offers a perfect showcase of view points with
a single gesture.

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Using Google Apps

Google Maps
Tips and Tricks
Google Maps and Google Earth are two of the most powerful and useful
tools that Google has ever produced. If you have never done more than
check out your house on Maps, here are a few tips and tricks that will help
you to see the real possibilities of these tools.

Turn-by-turn Offline Maps

Navigation kGet access to a map, with
kIf you own an Android or without a network signal.
smartphone, you won’t Download a map of your
need an extra GPS device destination to use offline and
for your cross country maintain GPS functionality even
excursions. Map your when you lose mobile service. You
road trip and get hands- can save and use certain maps
free, turn-by-turn GPS when you’re not connected to
navigation, complete the Internet. If your mobile device
with voice guidance. You has GPS, the blue dot shows your
can even get live traffic location so you know where you
reports, letting you see are. You can even get maps of
current traffic conditions indoor spaces. The next time you’re
before you set off and running through the airport or
while you’re on the go. in a shopping centre, use Google
Get estimated travel Maps on your mobile phone to get
times and even find indoor walking directions and find
alternative routes if things your way around.
look busy.
Biking Maps
kIf you are more of a fan of pedal power than horsepower, you
can use the Google Maps Biking Directions beta. Find dedicated
bike trails, routes without motor vehicles and the best streets for
cycling. Dark green lines indicate bike trails, light green shows
dedicated bike lanes and dotted green lines are bicycle-friendly
roads. Navigate it all with biking directions in Google Maps
Navigation Beta.

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 Google Maps Tips and Tricks

Your Places Google Arts & Culture

kWant to map out your travel plans or share hiking spots with kGoogle Arts & Culture is a platform which brings world heritage
friends? Try making your own map of what matters to you most sites of the modern and ancient world online. Using Street View,
with Your Places. Mark locations, add details like photos and 3D modelling and other Google technologies, these amazing sites
links and invite others to collaborate with you on your map; and are now accessible to everyone across the globe. With videos,
access it on your Android device. Sign in to your Google account photos and in-depth information, you can now explore the
to access your map across all your devices. You can take your map wonders of the world from your armchair just as if you were there.
on the go to find your favourite spots easily and even access your A fantastic feature that makes Street View even more unmissable.
desktop location search history on your phone, and vice versa.

Sharing Maps
kYou can share maps via a short URL, an HTML embed, email,
text message and even send maps to certain GPS units and cars.
To generate a customisable embed code or URL, click on the link Send to Phone
icon to the top left of your display. Check the Short URL box (or kGoogle Send to Phone enables you to send text messages of
whatever you require) or click the link for Customise and Preview Google Maps content to your mobile phone. For example, you
Embedded Map. If you want to send the link out, rather than copy/ might text yourself an address or location you’ve found.
paste the text that’s been generated, click Send for further options. To send something you’ve found on Google Maps to your
phone, click the link icon in the left panel. Click Send and choose
Phone from the left side. Enter the required information and hit
Send. You’ll receive a text message with your selection. You can
also send a local search result to your phone, by clicking More >
Send from the place marker’s location information window.

MapsGL
kMapsGL uses technology
called WebGL (Web-based
Graphics Library) to enhance
the Google Maps experience.
WebGL brings 3D graphics to My Places
your browser without the need kUsing My Places, you can
to install additional software. create custom, annotated
This allows you to provide Google Maps that include
seamless transitions between place marks, lines a nd shapes.
various levels of imagery and different map views. Some of the You can even add descriptive
MapsGL improvements include 3D buildings in Map view mode text and embed photos and
and 45° aerial imagery, smooth transitions between zoom levels videos in your map; then share
and seamless 45° aerial view rotations and the ability to Swoop your maps with others. This
quickly from the Map View to Street View imagery. With MapsGL, can be handy for mapping out your favourite restaurants, planning
you can experience all of this in your browser without a plug-in. an upcoming holiday or saving biking routes for future reference.

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Using Google Apps

Explore with
Google Earth
Google Earth lets you explore the world from the comfort of your own
home. Featuring high quality satellite imagery, as well as incredible 3D
rendered models, Google Earth lets you take a trip to a faraway place, stroll
through a 3D forest and even travel back in time.

Step 1 Step 2
kIf you have not already installed the Google Earth app on your kClick on the links to install the app. When installation is complete,
device, you will need to do this before you can begin. From the you will need to refresh the page to load the Earth view. You should
Google Earth webpage, click on the Learn more link in the bottom notice that the view changes to show detail that is more realistic.
left corner of the screen and click on the Earth Pro link to start You can now zoom right out to show the whole globe.
the download.

Step 3
kYou can search for locations in Google Earth by clicking the
Search icon in the side bar to the left of the screen. Type the name
of a street, town or country in the search box and the view will
zoom in to show it. Search also for landmarks and businesses.

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 Explore with Google Earth

Step 4 Step 6
kThe view of many locations in Google Earth will be in 3D. To tilt kYou can access news, photos, videos and Wikipedia information
the camera, use the controls at the top left of the window: the via Google Earth. Click on the ship’s wheel icon on the left side bar
control with the eye tilts the camera, the control with the hand to switch to the Voyager screen. You can then click on individual
pans the camera. You can pan, zoom and tilt by right-clicking on a piece to read it in full. This information is updated regularly so
point and moving the mouse. remember to check back.

Step 5
kSwitch to view while using Google Earth by clicking the Menu
options, top right, and then selecting Map Style. Now you can pick
how the Map details are shown. From limited information to in-
depth detail or an option between the two.

Google Earth Mobile

In addition to the desktop app described above, you
can also download and install the standalone mobile
version of the app. The desktop version lets you view
satellite imagery, maps, terrain, 3D buildings, galaxies far
away in space and the deepest depths of the ocean. You
can learn about the moon and follow Apollo missions;
take narrated tours about the effects of climate change
and even travel back in time with Historical Imagery.
The Google Earth app is available for your Android or
Apple devices.

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Using Google Apps

How to Use
Google Translate
With the Earth in the palm of your hand or at the end of your keyboard,
there are no limits to how far you can explore without barriers. Yet if
you have been inspired to open up your world on the other side of your
screen, there is one barrier that could limit your travels, that of language.

Step 3
Setting Up Translate k Just like a standard Google search you can choose to input your
Google Translate is far more than just a basic translate tool. text via the keyboard or using voice input. To use the latter, click on
You can use this in several different ways. the Microphone icon to the left or if you prefer the former, tap the
keyboard icon to the right. Your text will now appear in the box to
Step 1 the left. By clicking the double arrow icon between these boxes,
k Unlike Google Earth or Maps, the Translate app is far less you can swap the text.
graphically intense but its lack of visual gloss is replaced with a
very powerful tool that can prove as essential, so let’s take a look.
Open the Apps menu on the tool bar and select Translate from the
choice of applications.

Step 4
kNOTE: You are limited 5000 characters per translation so ensure
you enter your text in small chunks to avoid missing text. For
this first example we have entered an expression in English and
Step 2 selected Norwegian, from the drop down menu, as the translated
kThis is the main language. The translation happens in real time.
control window of
Google Translate,
from here you
can decipher any
communication
break downs. Notice
the two boxes on
screen. The left
(input) is where you
enter the original
text and the right
(output) is where it
is translated.

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 How to Use Google Translate

Step 5 Step 8
kIf you wish to translate the same piece of text into another kBy clicking the Pencil icon in the input box, you enter your text
language, click on the downward arrow icon and select your by writing it, using your mouse, touchscreen on a pointer tool.
language for the list of options. You can also hear both the original Once you have entered your word(s) you can either select from
and the translated expression by clicking the speaker icon in the the options running along the bottom of the input box or press
bottom left of the input or output windows. the blue return icon to enter it.

Step 6
kBy clicking the Pencil icon in the input box, you enter your text
by writing it, using your mouse, touchscreen on a pointer tool.
Once you have entered your word(s) you can either select from
the options running along the bottom of the input box or press
the blue return icon to enter it.

Translate Documents
To translate a piece of text that is larger than 5000
Step 7
characters you can upload a full document which will
kTranslated text
be read and translated by the Translate app. Once
can be Copied, the process is complete you are free to download the
Shared or Saved to translated document. This process is far from complex as
Phrasebook, the we will detail below.
results using the icon
links in the output From the “translate a document” link below the text input
box. By clicking the box, click on blue text to bring up a small grey box with a
Star icon to the top Choose file link on the left side. Click this link and locate
right you can open the file you wish to translate and select as is usual with
your Phrasebook and your OS. You can upload files from a number of formats
from Word to HTML files, there is a 1MB file size limit so
quickly view all your
ensure your doc is compatible. Once your file is uploaded
saved translations. You
tap the blue Translate icon to load your translated
can also save the file document, leaving you to copy and paste the results as
by clicking Export to you wish.
Google Sheets.

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Using Google Apps

How to Use
Google Flights
Google have apps for navigating the world around you, and Google
Flights is the next logical addition to their app portfolio, giving you quick
access to explore the world for real. With this app you can find and book
flights for you and your family, making the world more accessible.

Step 1 Step 3
kNavigate to the Google Flights website google.com/flights to be kIn the search bar, first enter the airport you wish to fly from and
presented with this home page. It is advised that you allow Google the destination you wish to travel to. NOTE: if this location doesn’t
to track your location so you will be automatically linked to your fly to your choice of destination the nearest airport that does, will
nearest airport, based on distance. be selected for you. Next you will need to select a travel date.

Step 2 Step 4
kJust above the main search bar, you will notice you have three kHaving selected the airport and your destination you can now
options which are very important to ensure your search results confirm that your flights are available for the time period you wish
match your requirements. Your options are type of trip, number of to fly. To do this simply enter the departure and return dates to see
passengers and finally type of seat. Enter your picks to move on. a listing of all available flights within this time scale.

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 How to Use Google Flights

Step 5 Step 8
kClick the flight that suits your needs to be taken to this window, kFrom the map screen you will see a selection of locations and
from here you can view any stop overs or changes required by flight prices that are available from your choice of airport. Click
clicking the small arrow icon to the right of the top bar. If you have on any of these to be shown the flight plan, a visual and a brief
happy to move on click anywhere on the listing to move on. selection of alternative flights and their costs.

Step 6
kThis screen is where you actually book the flight and confirm the
listed details. When you are happy to proceed, click the Select icon
and you will be automatically taken to the airline or ticket vendors
own website, where you can complete your booking.

Step 9
kYou can also choose to change the search parameters based on
the price of the flight. You can do this by using the slide bar on
the left of the screen and selecting the price you wish to pay. The
results are displayed below.

Step 7
kIf you are more open with your travel plans, and don’t have a
strict destination you wish to visit you are well covered by this app.
From the home page click the Explore Destinations link directly
above the world map bottom right.

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Using Google Apps

Getting Started
with Photos
If you have never used Photos before, you may be surprised to discover
just how useful this free tool is. It not only lets you create slideshows of
your favourite images and share images with your friends and family, it
also allows you to edit your images. By making Photos the central hub for
your photography those memories will be safe.

Uploading to Photos
Step 1 Step 3
kOpen the Photos app via the App icon and the drop down menu kWhen your files have uploaded to Photos, they will be displayed
accessed from it. The first thing you will need to do with Photos based upon the date the images or videos were captured, newest
is upload your images and videos into it. Unlike its predecessor to oldest being the default setting. Notice the link to the Desktop
Google’s Picasa, Photos doesn’t search your computer for Uploader, ignore that for now as we will cover it later.
compatible files thus you will need to organise yours first.

Step 2
kHaving placed the
files you wish to
upload to Photos
in a folder, the
quickest way to
transfer them is to
simply drag and
drop the files on the
Photos window as a
group. Each file will
then upload to the
app, the speed of
which is based on
your connection.

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 Getting Started with Photos

1 3
4 5

7 6
8

Using Photos
Below we break down the key features and controls of the Google Photos application, so it’s even easier to use.

1 Menu 5 Upload
kBy clicking the three lines icon, top left, you can open the kBy tapping this link you will open an upload window, where
main Photos menu panel. Here you can quickly access the key you can search your computer for any additional photographs or
functionality of the application, from sharing your images and videos that you wish to add to your Photos file collection. Once
videos to clearing out unwanted files. you have located the files, select them and click Open to upload.

2 Settings 6 Timeline
kThe Settings link gives you access to Photos customisable kHere you can control the images and videos that are displayed
features. From this link you can decide upon your storage options, in the main Preview window based upon the date they were
compressed but high quality storage is free, while keeping your originally captured. To do this simply scroll up or down through
files at the original size is limited to 15GB without a paid upgrade. the Timeline bar, stopping at the date you wish to view.

3 Search 7 Preview Window

kBy entering the title of your file you can search your image and kBy default, all images, animations, collages and videos will be
video database for it. If you have a large amount of files stored in displayed in this main window. You can scroll through your entire
Photos, you can narrow the criteria of your search to specific files collection and by clicking on a file you can view it full screen and
from Videos to 360 photos by double clicking the search bar. even add it to your Pinterest account by tapping the icon top left.

4 Create 8 Add Partner

kTap this link to open a pop-up menu which contains four kThis option is a far more in-depth way of sharing your entire
additional links, Album, Shared album, Animation and Collage. library of files with another user via an email account, for example
By click on your choice from these four options you will be taken a family member or friend. You can, however, only share your
directly to its specific window. library with one person.

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Using Google Apps

Using Photo Collages

and Animations
One of the great features included with Photos is the ability to make
collages and animations of your files, either for yourself or to be shared
with your friends and family.

Step 1 Step 3
kStarting with a collage, the first task is to select your photos. You kYou can edit your image collage by tapping the edit icon located
can select a single folder by clicking on it in the folder panel or you to the top right of this screen. You have a series of options and
can select numerous images by clicking on the tick icon on the filters that you can apply to your new image. To use a filter click the
top left corner of each of the images you want. middle icon and then click on the style you wish to apply.

Step 2 Step 4
kOnce all the images you want are selected, click the + icon kYou can also adjust the level of filter use using the slider bar in
located in the top right of the preview window. A new menu will the middle of the filters listings. The crop and rotate tool enables
open; from the options you are given, select Collage. Photos will you to cut out sections of the collage or rotate the image at either
now auto generate a collage based on your images. 90 degree angles or manually, using the user control.

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 Using Photo Collages and Animations

Step 5 Step 8
kWhen you are happy with the edits to your collage, tap the Done kWhen you are happy with your collage and or your animated
icon. You have a couple of options for saving it. Click the more slide-show you can send them to your contacts by tapping the
options link on the far right corner of the window. Now choose Share icon. When you see this window, choose how you wish to
how you wish to store your new collage from this list. share the file and click the required icon to make your selection.

Step 6
kMoving on to the Animation option, once again select the
images you wish to add and click the + icon and select Animation
for your list of options. Now all your have to do is leave the Photos
application to do the work for you.

Step 7
kPhotos will now auto generate an Animation based on your
images. This animation is simply a slideshow, moving between a
series of still images. This animation is automatically saved to your
collection of files within Photos.

Link to Pinterest
Pinterest is a very popular social networking tool, based
around sharing images, which is closely linked to the
Photos application.

If you are already a Pinterest user or simply wish to sign

up and share your photos with the world, it couldn’t be
easier to get started. Visit www.pinterest.com and sign in
using your Google account. Once you are signed in you
can upload directly by clicking the icon on any of your
images, when you are viewing them full screen.

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Using Google Apps

Editing Images
Using Photos
Google Photos not only provides you with storage for your photos and
videos in one place, it can also be used to edit your picture. Photos editor
is not a fully-featured image editing program but it includes enough to
make the most of your photos. It’s also free!

Light and
Colour Fixes
kThese controls let you
change the lighting
or colour levels of
your image. You can
either use the sliders to
change Light, Colour
temperature and Pop.
The latter being a
fantastic tool that adds
greater depth to your
images with a simple
Quick Fixes adjustment to the slider.
kAs stated Google Photo editing isn’t a fully optimised and
functional Photoshop alternative but with that said, there are more
than enough options for you to clean up or enhance your digital
photography, with only the most basic understanding of photo-
editing. Photos offers simple tools, designed to help fix common
problems with a few clicks as follows.

Undo Edits
You can easily remove any edits you have made to your
photographs while you are still editing. All you need to
do to remove your edits is click on the Undo Edits button
located at the top of the editing window. By doing this
you will instantly remove any changes you have made to
the image, from applying filters to cropping and rotating,
so make sure you are happy to do so before clicking. You
can copy your edits via the edit menu (three dots) and
paste them on any image in your library.

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 Editing Images Using Photos

Image Processing (Filters) Rotate and Crop

kThese controls let you quickly add a range of different filters to kThe crop and rotate tool enables you to cut out sections of the
your images. These range from sepia and black and white, to soft collage or rotate the image at either 90 degree angles or manually
focus and graduated tint. Click on each filter and you can then using the user controls down the right hand side. NOTE: If you are
control the intensity of the effect using sliders. You can easily undo using the crop tool to zoom this could effect image quality.
any effect using the buttons below the filter list. You can also crop the image to a number of specific aspect ratios,
Free (user defined as detailed above), Original, Square, 16:9, 4:3 and
3:2 by clicking the aspect ratio icon in the top bar. Having selected
any of these ratio options, Photos will place an adjustable frame on
the image, click Done when you are ready to crop.

Adding Information
Each photo or movie file in your Photos library contains
Click and Hold to Compare unique information. This includes file size, resolution,
kWhen editing or applying filters to your images, it is very date and time it was captured all as default. This data can
be viewed by clicking on the “i” icon on the control bar at
important that you don’t lose sight of the original image; this
the top of the window. You can add a custom description
ensures that your edits aren’t actually detrimental. At anytime
to your files, which will be stored as part of the image’s
during the editing process, you can revert to your original image information. To save this new info tap the X Icon in the
by pressing and holding on the mouse button or screen. Your top right corner of the screen.
altered image can be saved as a copy so you can keep both.

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Using Google Apps

Using Your
Photo Albums
Google Photos Albums is an easy way to store your photos online and
then share them as and when you choose. Google provides free storage
that makes sharing your photos quick and easy.

Step 2
Adding Photos to kTo create a new album folder, click on the tick icon on the files

Web Albums you want to add to the folder. Now click the + icon in the top right
of the main tool bar and select Album from the drop down list in
Adding photos that you have on your computer to your Web the top right corner, as shown here.
Albums is easy using the Google Photos software.

Step 1
kOpen the Photos app and search through your photo folders to
find the images you want. Each file acts as an individual but you
can create new albums containing a mix of files if you wish.

Step 3
kYou can choose to save to an existing Album to create a new
one. Access to these albums is achieved in the same way, by
clicking the link of your choice.

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 Using Your Photo Albums

Step 4
kHaving chosen to create a new Album, you can now customise
its name by entering your title into the text input box at the top of
the collection of files; click the tick icon to finish . You can also add
files to this folder by dragging and dropping directly.

Sharing Web Albums

There are a couple of different ways to share your files and
albums, depending on whether the recipients have signed up
Album Access
for Google. The people you share with are added to the Shared with
list in Google Photos. These people can do the following:
Step 1
kTo share a single file, click • If your album visibility is limited, they can view it by
signing in to Photos.
on the image to enter full
• They can see the shared album on your Photos Web
screen view and then tap
gallery, your Google profile and in Google+ (if you’ve
the Share icon on the right signed up).
of the screen. From this • Google+ users: The people you share with have
menu screen you can share permission to reshare your album. Within Google+, they
with a Google contact by can also see who else you’ve shared it with.
clicking them.

Step 2 Step 4
kAlternatively you can share via your social networks by tapping kAlternatively you
the link to Facebook or Twitter. To share to a non-Google contact, can also share via
click Get Link and then copy and paste it into a message or email. your social networks
by tapping the
link(s). To share to a
non-Google contact,
click Get Link and
then copy and paste
it into a message or
email and send the
link as per usual.

Step 5
kAdd a comment if you’d like to add context to your photos. This
text will be posted with your photos in Google+. Add Google+
Step 3 circles, individual people or email addresses and then click Share.
kTo share an album,
click on the icon in
the top right corner
of the album and
then click on Share.
Once again you can
quickly share with
Google contacts
by clicking on
their name.

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Using Google Apps

Get Started
with YouTube
YouTube provides a forum for people to connect, inform and inspire others
across the globe and acts as a distribution platform for original content
creators. More than 1 billion unique users visit YouTube each month so
don’t miss out.

1
2

3
4

6
7

1 Search 3 Account Controls

kYou can search YouTube just as you would search on Google and kHere you can see your viewing history, channel subscriptions,
as you type your search term, suggestions will appear below the playlists you have created and social connections. You can also
search box. Previously searched terms that are similar will show control or delete channel subscriptions. Social connections allows
at the top of the suggestions box. Search results are displayed in you to share your content with your Facebook or Twitter accounts.
order of relevance.

2 Upload Controls 4 Recommended Content

kThis drop-down menu contains a direct link to the upload screen kIf you are signed in to your account, and have viewed any videos
as well as links to your uploads dashboard; here you can see all of previously, content that is recommended for you will be displayed
the content you have uploaded and your analytics, which shows at the top of the home page. You can view more recommended
how many times your videos have been viewed and, if you have content by clicking the word “recommended”. If you have
a channel, how many subscribers you have. These controls give subscribed to any channels, relevant content from those channels
access to figures showing the decline or growth of your channel. will also be included here.

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 Get Started with YouTube

Step 2
5 Subscribed Channels kYou can make changes
kA list of your subscribed channels is shown here. You can click to your playlists by
the arrow button just above the list to change how it is displayed: visiting your Library.
new content, A-Z or most relevant. Just below the channel This link is found on the
subscriptions list is a button which takes you to the complete left side of the main
listing of available channels. You will also find the controls for YouTube user window.
managing channels there as well.

Step 3
6 Recommended Channels kOpen the playlist you want to change and click the Edit button
kThe listing here is based on the videos you have watched and next to the playlist you want to edit. Click Done to save any
which channels you have previously subscribed to. Roll your changes you make.
mouse over the Subscribe button to see how many subscribers
any channel has and click the button to instantly subscribe. A tick
next to the name of the channel shows that it is verified as an
official channel.

7 Latest Content
kThe most recent content from your subscribed channels is
displayed as a list at the bottom of the screen. If you have not
subscribed to any channels, this list will be populated from the
most viewed content on YouTube, content that is currently
trending and that which is relevant to your geographic location.

Manage Playlists
With playlists, you can put a series of videos all in one handy Step 4
place. For example, you could create a playlist of all of your kReorder videos in your
favourite music videos or sports clips. playlist by hovering your
mouse over the video
Step 1 until you see a grey
kTo add videos to playlist, click the Add to link underneath a video. vertical bar to the left of
You can add it to a playlist that already exists or you can create a the video. Click the grey
new one. bar, then drag and drop
the video to rearrange it.

Step 5
kTo delete an entire playlist, click the More icon at the top right
corner of this window, then click Delete Playlist at the top of the
list. Once a playlist has been removed, you cannot undo.

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Using Google Apps

Using the
YouTube App
The YouTube app gives you access to great videos and shows on all sorts
of subjects. It is the gateway to a huge and always expanding world of
entertainment. Follow this guide and enjoy YouTube, wherever you are.

Step 1 Step 3
kLog in by tapping the Silhouette icon (top right corner). If you kTap on a video to open it. You might have to watch a short advert
don’t, you can set one up (tap Sign In then Add Account). It’s a first. While watching, you can use the Thumbs icons to like or
good idea to use YouTube while logged in, as this allows videos dislike it, the Share icon to share it or you can save it to your Watch
you might like to be offered as viewing suggestions. Later list for viewing later. Similar videos are listed below it.

Step 2 Step 4
kYou can search for a subject or channel using the Magnifying kTwo more controls are worth a mention. The small triangle below
glass icon. You’re then presented with a list of relevant videos, the right corner of the video can be tapped to reveal or conceal
showing how many views they’ve had, their length and their further information and links and you can tap the Subscribe
uploader. Their length, in minutes, is shown in the screenshot. button to be informed whenever the YouTuber posts a new video.

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 Using the YouTube App

Step 5 Step 8
kTap the video as it plays and you get these controls. In the centre, kThe YouTube app also features the ability to “Go Live” with your
there’s the Pause/Play icon and either side are the controls to skip content. This is available directly through your device if you have
to the next video or restart. Scrub through the video using the red a camera and microphone attached or built in. To start your live
dot, or make it full screen with the icon in the bottom right. stream click the camera icon and select “Go Live” to share your
stream with the world. Once complete your stream will be save to
your YouTube video uploads.

Step 6
kThe Three-dots icon, in the top right, gives access to further
options, such as: reporting the video, adding captions or changing
the resolution. Tap the video at the top of the screen, anywhere
there’s no icons, to hide the controls and go back to viewing.

Step 7
kNotice the rectangular
icon with the Wi-Fi icon
within it. Tap this icon
YouTube Kids/Gaming
to stream YouTube Google have two more content focused applications
from your tablet to a that sit alongside their original YouTube app, YouTube
TV, using Chromecast Kids and YouTube Gaming. Each of these apps, which
or Airplay. Simply select require separate downloads, follow the same basic
build as the original, albeit the content is locked to the
the device you wish to
respective app. For example YouTube kids features only
cast to from the list and
child friendly videos and content and all search results
your video will instantly will remain within these confines. Thus enabling users/
play on that device. parents and guardians to control of the content viewed.

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Using Google Apps

Uploading Videos
to YouTube
It may sometimes seem like the whole world is uploading videos to
YouTube, from the random ramblings of retro gamers to budding
musicians. If you want to add your own voice to the varied world of
YouTube, here’s how to get started.

Step 1 Step 2
kSign in to your YouTube account if you haven’t already done so. kClick anywhere in the upload window on the next screen to start
At the top right of the screen, wherever you are in YouTube, you browsing for your videos. Alternatively, you can drag videos onto
will see an Upload arrow button. Click this to get started. the browser window from any open folder on your computer.

Step 3
kOnce you have added a video to the upload window, using
either method, a new page will automatically open. If the video file
has a title, it will automatically be entered in the title box.

Video Formats
Not sure which format to save your video? If you receive
an “invalid file format” error message when you’re
uploading, make sure that you’re using one of the
following formats:

.MOV, .MPEG4, .AVI, .WMV, .MPEGPS, .FLV, 3GPP or WebM

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 Uploading Videos to YouTube

Step 4 Step 7
kFill out the rest of the information, including the description and kTo check your video has been added to your account, navigate
the tags, as these help make it easier for the video to be found by back to the main YouTube page and click on your name in the left-
searchers. If you wish, you can alter the privacy settings so only hand column. All of your uploaded videos will be displayed there.
certain people can find it.

Step 5 Step 8
k When the video has finished processing, several thumbnails will kClick the Video Manager button to quickly see and manage all of
automatically be grabbed from it and displayed. Click on the one your uploaded videos. Here you can check the number of views,
you want to use as the display thumbnail on YouTube: select the likes and dislikes, as well as being able to share or delete videos.
one that you feel sums up your video clip the best.

Step 6
kIf the uploader detects that the video is shaky, as it is being
processed, you can choose to stabilise it. A progress bar will
show when the video is uploaded to the site.

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Using Google Apps

How to Use
Google Drive
Google Drive is a free storage service which allows you to store images,
folders and documents in the Cloud. These files and documents can then
be accessed from any tablet, phone or computer via the Google Drive
software. Not only is this a great way to free up space on your devices, it
also lets you access your files from almost anywhere.

1
2 5

1 Search 4 Current Folder

kYou can search Google Drive in the same way that you can kThe contents of the currently selected folder are shown here. You
search Gmail or one of the other Google products. can change how items are displayed (List or Grid).

2 New 5 Display Controls

kClick the New button to open a new document, spreadsheet, kChange how items in your folders are displayed and how they
presentation, form or drawing. are sorted. The gear icon lets you access the G Drive settings.

3 Folders 6 Upload List

kYour preset Google Drive folders are shown here, along with any kWhen you upload multiple items to Google Drive, the Upload
that you have created. Click More to see Labels. box appears, to show you the progress of each item.

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 How to Use Google Drive

Free Google Storage

Google Drive, Google+ Photos and Gmail give you
storage space for nothing so you can keep your files,
emails and photos accessible from any device, anywhere.
If you reach the free storage limit, everything in Google
Drive, Google+ Photos, and Gmail will still be accessible
but you won’t be able to create or add anything new.
You’ll still be able to create Google Docs, since they don’t
take up any storage space. For G+ Photos, you will only
be able to upload new photos and videos under certain
size limits.

Installing Backup and Sync – PC/Mac

Step 1
kThe first thing you need to do is check your Google Drive access
status. You can do this at drive.google.com/start. If you have
Google Drive on
access, you will see a blue Download button.
Android and iOS
You can download the Google Drive app for mobile
devices free of charge, from the Play Store or App Store.
This allows you to both view and edit files in your Google
Drive folders.

Once downloaded, the app should automatically sign

in using the same Google account details you entered
on your computer (which is also, hopefully, the one with
which you set up your Android or iOS device).

You will now be able to see any files you placed in the
Google Drive folder on your computer. If you had the
Google Docs app installed, this will now be replaced by
Google Drive. To create a new doc, tap Menu > New >
Document, or Spreadsheet, etc.
Step 2
kClick on the
Download button Step 4
and when asked to, kYou will be asked to sign in again and will then be asked to sync.
Agree to the Google This creates a new folder on your computer which is used as the
Terms of Service. storage folder.
You must do this
before you start
the download.

Step 3
kClick on Download
Backup and sync
and follow the
instructions to install
the software on your
computer. The site
will automatically
detect whether it is
PC or Mac.

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Using Google Apps

Restore Deleted
Drive Files
Deleting files from Drive is a very quick process but a file you remove
might not always be gone forever. You have the chance to restore deleted
files before they are deleted permanently. Here is how you restore, remove
and permanently delete files in Google Drive.

Restoring Incorrectly Step 3

kSign in to Drive at www.drive.google.com. Go to the Bin section

Deleted Documents on the left side of your screen and right-click the file or folder you
want to restore. Click Restore to return it to its previous location.
To restore a file from the trash that you don’t own, you need to
Step 1 contact the owner of the file.
kIf you decide that you don’t want to delete a file or folder
that you’ve moved to the trash, you can restore it so that you
can access it again. Once you restore a file, it will be recovered
wherever you use Drive or Docs, Sheets and Slides.

Step 2
kAt the moment, you can’t restore a file or folder from the Drive
mobile apps or from the Docs, Sheets or Slides home screens. You
can restore your files from Drive on the web or on your computer.
Let’s look at those options here.

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 Restore Deleted Drive Files

Step 4 Step 2
kIf you permanently delete a file or folder that you realise you kTo remove files in Drive online, sign into Drive at www.drive.
need access to, Google is able to help you recover it for a limited google.com. Now click or right-click the file or folder you want to
time. However, after the file has been deleted from Google’s remove and then click the Remove icon; as with removing files on
systems, it’s gone forever. You can request recovery from Google your computer, anything removed will also be removed offline.
themselves at www.support.google.com.

Removing Files Permanently Delete Files

Step 1 Step 1
kOpen the Google Drive folder on the desktop of your computer, kIf you want to permanently delete a file or folder you own, you
select the file or folder you want to remove and drag it to the trash can delete an individual file or empty your entire trash to delete
on your computer. A file you remove from the Drive folder on your all files you have removed. Once a file has been deleted, anyone
computer will be moved to the trash in Drive on the web and in you’ve shared the file with will lose access to the file as well.
the Drive, Docs, Sheets and Slides.

Step 2
kTo permanently delete files you added to the trash from the Drive
folder on your computer, simply empty the trash on your desktop.
The files, along with anything else you trashed, will be deleted. On
the web, sign in to Drive, go to Bin and select the file. Click Delete
Forever. The file is now been deleted for good.

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Using Google Apps

Set Up and Use

Google Docs
Google Docs is a free, web-based office suite. Using this software you
can create text documents, spreadsheets, complex forms and even
presentations. Everything you create is stored via your Google Drive
account. Here’s how to make the most of Google Docs.

Step 2
Creating New Documents kTo create a new document, go to your Drive, click the downward
pointing arrow and select Google Docs from the menu, then pick
Step 1 either Blank or Template. Name the document by entering the
kThere are several different ways of getting started with Google text in the top left corner, this will also start auto-save.
Docs. You can create a new online document, you can upload
an existing document to edit or you can use a template from
the templates gallery. Let’s start with a new Google doc.

Step 3
kAlong the top of the document you will find the editing
and formatting tools. If you have ever used Microsoft Word
or OpenOffice Writer, you should be familiar with most of the
formatting options here.

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 Set Up and Use Google Docs

Step 4 Step 2
kYou can also kWhen the document has uploaded, click the File option, as
save a copy of any before. From these links click on Email collaborators and enter
document to your the details of those you wish to share the file. This allows you to
computer if you wish. edit and collaborate on the document online.
To save a copy of
any document in the
Drive, open it and go
to the File menu. Roll
the mouse pointer
over the Download
As... option.

Step 5
kSelect one of the
following file types:
HTML (zipped), RTF,
Word, Open Office,
PDF or plain text. Step 3
Your document will kHaving uploaded a compatible document to Google Docs, said
then download to file will instantly be saved to your Google Drive. These files are then
your computer. The accessible from the main Google docs menu screen, shown here.
original document NOTE: Files to be converted by Docs can’t be larger than 1 MB.
will remain in
Google Drive.

Import Documents
You can import a variety of documents into Google Drive and
then either keep them as they were originally formatted or
convert them into Google Docs.

Step 1
kOpen a new Google Doc and click the File link at the top left of
your documents options list. Click Open and then click Upload.
The Upload window will appear leaving you to drag and drop
your file into this window. The file will open automatically.

Time Machine
Google Drive tracks every change you make to files and
documents you store there, so when you hit the Save
button a new revision is saved. You can use the tools in
Google Drive to look back as far as 30 days automatically,
or choose a specific revision to save forever.

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Using Google Apps

How to Use
Google Sheets
With Google Sheets you can create spreadsheets online, work on them
with others in real-time and then store them online in Google Drive.
Google Sheets, for most users, is more than capable of replacing the
corresponding software in something like Microsoft Office.

Step 2
kTo create a new spreadsheet, go to your Google Drive, click
the NEW button and select Google Sheet from the drop-down
menu. Once you name the spreadsheet or start typing. Google
Sheets will automatically save your work every few seconds.

Create and Save Step 3

kGive your Sheet a title. At the top of the spreadsheet, you will
Spreadsheets see text that indicates when your spreadsheet was last saved. You
can access your spreadsheet at any time by opening your Drive at
Step 1 www.drive.google.com. Here you will see it as a saved file.
kThere are different ways of getting started with Google
Sheets. You can create a new spreadsheet, upload an existing
spreadsheet from a computer or use a template from the
templates gallery, to create a spreadsheet with a specific purpose.

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 How to Use Google Sheets

Step 3
Uploading Spreadsheets kWhen the document has uploaded, click the File option, as
before. From these links click on Email collaborators and enter the
Step 1 details of those with whom you wish to share the file. This allows
kWhen you upload a spreadsheet into Google Drive, you have you to edit and collaborate on the Google Sheet document online.
the choice to keep your spreadsheet in the original format or
convert it into the Google Docs format. If you don’t convert the
spreadsheet, you may not be able to access it collaboratively.

Step 2
kOpen a new Google Sheet and click the File link at the top left
of your documents options list. Click Open and then Upload.
The Upload window will appear leaving you to drag and drop
your file into this window. The file will open automatically.

Using Sheets
Templates
If you want to quickly create a spreadsheet, you can
pick one of the templates in the templates gallery. Each
template has standard text that you can replace with
your own, and preset formatting that you can reuse.
You can also create a spreadsheet with a template
directly from your Documents List. Click the red Create
button and select From template....

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Using Google Apps

Set Up and Use

Google Drawing
Google Drawing allows you to create, share and edit documents online
and collaborate with others by inviting them to view your edits. You can
even chat with others from within the app, in real-time, before you save or
publish your drawings online as an image or in many other image formats.

Step 3
Create a New Drawing kIn line, arrow and scribble modes, you can keep adding lines
until you go back to select mode by clicking the Select button
Step 1 from the toolbar (the small arrow to the left of the Shapes
kTo start creating drawings in Google Docs, go to your Docs list, button) or pressing the Esc key.
click the NEW button and select Drawing from the More menu.
Then, using the menu options and buttons in the toolbar, you
can create flow charts, design diagrams and other drawings.

Step 4
kTo insert a text box, select it and click where you want to add
the text box. Enter your text and press Enter. Your text will be
added to your drawing. Use text boxes instead of word art if
you’d like to use word wrap or specify a different text size.

Step 2
kClick on the tools at the top of the screen to select them. These
range from arrows, lines and poly-lines, to shapes and text
boxes. You can also insert images or photos using the image
button. To place a line, for example, click to place one end of the
line and drag to the other end.

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 Set Up and Use Google Drawing

Step 5 Step 7
kThe Format menu lets you change the background of your kSome editing options are available only when you’ve selected
drawing, align and rotate items, select snap to grid or snap a specific item. For example, when you insert a text box or word
to guide, change the order of the items (for example, bring a art, you can see the Edit text button at the right end of the
shape forward) and group items. toolbar. Click it to change the selected text.

Step 6
kYou can undo and redo changes by clicking the two arrows
to the left end of the toolbar. To zoom in and out on your
drawings, click the Zoom button in the toolbar.

Step 8
kOnce you’re done, your drawing is automatically saved. You
can then add it to a document, presentation or spreadsheet. To
do this, open the document you want to add the drawing to,
click Insert and then select Drawing.

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Using Google Apps

How to Use
Google Slides
Google Slides is an online presentation app that allows you to show off
your work in a visual way. There are different ways of getting started using
Google Slides: you can create a new online presentation, you can upload
an existing one or you can use a template from the gallery.

Creating a Presentation
Step 1
kJust like creating any new document in Google Docs, to create
a new presentation go to your Documents List, click the NEW
button and select Google Slides from the drop-down menu.

Step 3
kThere are several ways to format text and objects on a slide.
To get started, click on the object you want to format, resize or
Step 2 move. To add custom formatting to text or to an object, you can
kWhen you give your document a name and start typing, Google use the Format menu or the Edit toolbar.
Docs will automatically save your work. Auto-save will continue
to save at intervals whenever the document is open and being
worked on. You can work from a template or free hand.

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 How to Use Google Slides

Step 4 Step 7
kTo select multiple objects, hold the Shift key while selecting kTo save a copy of a presentation to your computer rather than
each object or drag your mouse over all of the objects you’d like online, you can download it. In your document, go to the File
to select. To deselect one or more objects, press the Shift key menu and point your mouse to the Download as option. Select
and click the objects. a file type and your presentation will download.

Step 5
kTo change or add a theme to your presentation in real time, go
to the Slide menu, and select Change theme. Select the theme
you’d like to use and it is automatically applied to all of the
slides in your presentation.

Step 6
kTransitions are a way to make your presentations look more
dynamic. You can animate elements such as bullet points or
even a list of images; for example, making them slide in from off
screen. Go to the View menu and select Transitions.

Viewing Presentations
To show a finished presentation, select Start Presentation
in the top right of the screen. A new window opens,
displaying your presentation one slide at a time. To skip
from one slide to the next, use the arrow keys on your
keyboard or click the arrow icon in the grey bar at the
bottom of your presentation. To close the presentation
viewer, press the Esc key.

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Using Google Apps

Use Templates
and Forms
If there is a specific type of document you want to create in Google
Docs, Sheets, Slides or Forms, check the template gallery to see if there
is one available. The template gallery includes hundreds of pre-made
documents, from a simple CV to multi-page company presentations. We
also look at the Google Forms app and see how it can be used.

Step 3
Browse the Template kBy default, the most popular templates from all categories will

Gallery be shown on screen when you first enter the gallery. You can
choose to view specific types of template using the links on the
left-hand side of the screen.
Step 1
kOpen Google Drive
and click on the
NEW button on the
left of the window.
Select Document,
Presentation,
Spreadsheet or Form
from the drop-down
menu (depending on
what type of document
you want to create).

Step 2 Step 4
kFrom within one of these document types, click File > New > kYou can also search for specific templates based upon the
From Template. This will open the main Google Docs template recommended uses, which are used to break up the layout of
gallery. You can now scroll down through the listings to see the templates. Taking Google Docs as an example you have
which one would be the best fit for your project. templates for CV’s, Letters, Personal, Work and Sales.

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 Use Templates and Forms

Step 5
kEach template will
have a thumbnail
image preview. If you
want to see more detail
of how the document
is laid out, click the
Preview button. You
can then click Close
this window or Use
this template.

Create and Share

Templates Using Google Forms
You can create your own templates and either keep them
for your own use or share them with the Google Template Adding a further tool to the already impressive listing,
Gallery, so that others can use them. you can use the Google Forms app to create online
surveys and quizzes and then share them with your
Step 1 family, friends or work colleagues.
kOpen Google Drive
To start a new Google Form you will need to return to the
and click on the NEW
Google Drive home page and from there click the NEW
button. Click on Doc,
button and select Google Forms from the More option
Sheet, Presentation on the drop-down menu. You will now need to give your
or Form. Once form a title and a description. Now you can start to build
your chosen blank your questions. Enter your first question and select from
document is open, you the options given when clicking the answer options
can begin to create menu on the right. You can choose from multiple choice
a template. or text entry.

To add another question tap the + icon on the right

Step 2 side bar. Here you can also add images, videos or sub
category descriptions. You can literally be as in-depth or
kWhen creating
simple as you wish. When you have finished your Google
a template that is
Form, you can change the colour pattern, preview the
going to be shared in finished form or select the format, questionnaire or quiz
the template gallery, using the setting icons top right. Finally tap Send to enter
avoid filling it with the details of who you want to share the form with. Click
specific text and send for a second time to complete the process.
images. People using To check the answers click on Responses at the top of the
the template later text input box, here you can view all completed forms.
will almost certainly
want to put their own
content into it.

Step 3
kWhen your template
is finished, save it
and return to the
main Google Drive
screen. Select the
template file in the
list of documents
using the Share link.
Add contacts or get
a shareable link to
email to them.

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Using Google Apps

How to Use
Google Cloud Print
Google Cloud Print is smart technology that connects your printers to
the web. Using Google Cloud Print, you can make your home and work
printers available to you, from the apps you use every day. It works on your
phone, tablet, PC and any other web-connected device you want to use.

Step 2
How to Connect with kOpen Google Chrome, click the Chrome menu on the browser

Cloud Ready Printers toolbar and select Settings. Now click the Show advanced
settings link. Scroll down to the Google Cloud Print section and
You can use Google Cloud Print with a cloud-ready printer click Sign in to Google Cloud Print.
(printers which can connect directly to the Internet and do not
need a PC to work). There are still plenty that are not but we
are concentrating on the cloud-ready type for this article.

Step 1
kThe first thing you need to do, if you do not already have it
installed, is download the latest version of Google Chrome and
install it. Once installed, Log in to your user account on the
Windows, Mac or Linux computer.

Step 3
kIn the window that appears, sign in with your Google Account
details to enable the Google Cloud Print connector. Hopefully
you will see the printer connected to your computer. Select the
printer you want to connect to and then click Add printer.

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 How to Use Google Cloud Print

Step 4 Step 2
kYou will then see a confirmation that Google Cloud Print has kClick the Printers on the left side and select the printer that
been enabled. The printer is now associated with your Google you want to share. If the printer is connected properly you will
account and connected to Google Cloud Print. You can print to see a Share button. When you share printers, you share printer
this printer using Google Cloud Print as long as you sign in with names so choose a descriptive name when setting up your
the same Google account. printer for the first time.

Sharing a Printer
If your friends or colleagues have Google accounts, you can
share your printer with them and let them print to it from Step 3
anywhere that has an Internet connection. kIn the dialog box that appears, enter the email address for the
person or Google Group you want to share with and click Share.
Step 1 Your friend will receive an email notification. To disable sharing,
kTo begin sharing your cloud connected printer, head to the follow the steps above to open the Sharing dialog box for the
Google Cloud Print management page at www.google.com/ printer and edit the user list.
cloudprint. This shows you a complete list of any printers
associated with your Google account.

Print From Everywhere?

Google Cloud Print integration works with many Google products and services, the first
of which are Chrome OS, Chrome, Gmail for mobile and Google Docs for mobile. You can
also print to third-party native mobile apps on the Android and iOS platforms. You can
also try the Google Cloud Print app for Android, so you can not only submit print jobs to
connected cloud-ready printers but also control printer options and manage print jobs
right from your mobile device.

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Using Google Apps

Set Up and Use

Google Keep
The Google Keep software allows you to easily create memos, notes and
to-do lists on your computer and on your iOS or Android smartphone and
then automatically sync them between the devices. Here’s how to access,
set up and create new notes in Google Keep.

Setting Up and Using Step 2

kAssuming you have no notes created, the screen will be almost

Google Keep completely blank. To start a new note, click in the Add note field
at the top of the screen. This will expand the box to show title
Google Keep is a great little app that enables you to create and note fields, as well as some additional format options.
unique to-do lists that can be stored across various hardware
platforms. So you can Google Keep your reminders safe!

Step 1
kKeep is part of Google drive when viewed on your computer,
although there seems to be no simple Go to Keep button on
the Drive main screen. Download the app for your platform and
then you’ll see the Keep area of your Google account.

Step 3
kIf you prefer to create a to-do list of items, click the New list
button (three dots). If you want to give your note a colour
highlight, click the paint palette icon and select your colour. To add
a reminder alarm, click the bell icon and set the reminder time.

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 Set Up and Use Google Keep

Step 4 Step 7
kWrite your note or kYou can also add reminders to your listings by clicking the
list. This can be as Reminders option from the left side control window. You can set
long as you need it to an alarm to notify you to perform the tasks on your listing. You
be, although if writing can choose to repeat this alarm if these tasks are regular ones
a large document, it is and also archive reminders in the same manner as before.
probably better to use
Google Docs. To add
an image to the note,
click the picture icon
and select your image.
Click Done to finish.

Step 5
kYour note will be
displayed on screen. If
you have several notes
or lists, you can choose
to display them as a
list or in a grid. Click on
any note to open it to
review the contents.
If you have finished
with a note, but want
to keep it safe, click the
archive button to move
it to the archive.

Step 6
kFrom the Archive you can still edit notes, change the highlight
colour, add reminders and delete the note. You can tell when
you are looking at a note in the archive as it will be displayed
under a grey bar. To remove a note from the archive and return
it to the main screen, click the Unarchive button.

Keep on Mobile
You can download the Google Keep app for Android and
iOS smartphones for free. Assuming you use the same
Google account to sign in on your computer and on the
phone, notes, lists and memos will automatically be
shared between the two devices. Keep on Android and
iOS offers you a few more options, including the ability
to create memos using voice (dictation). If your notes are
not syncing between your phone and your computer,
make sure to check the sync options on the phone in
settings > accounts > Google account.

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Using Google Apps

How to Use
Google Pay
Now you can pay with it, too. Just add your credit, debit, loyalty, and gift
cards to Google Pay, and start shopping in stores, in apps, and online.
Google Pay can be used at shops around the world, wherever contactless
payments are accepted.

Setting Up Google Pay

Google Pay is a secure system, but as with anything to do with money and payments, it is important to make sure that you set
everything up properly.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kYou will need to make sure that you have kOnce installed, tap the app icon and then kWhichever option you choose, you will have
your credit/debit card or cards close at hand, tap “Get Started” and choose the Google to add information, including CVC codes and
and have all the details available (account account to use with the app (if you have more other security information (we can’t show a
numbers, sort codes, security numbers, etc.) You than one). If you already have a credit or debit screenshot of this process, due to a security
will also need to download the Google Pay app card registered to your Google account it will feature that prohibits the information being
from Google Play, if you don’t already have it on be displayed, along with the option to add a captured). Complete the info requested and
your phone. different card. accept the terms.

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 How to Use Google Pay

Step 4 Step 5 Step 6

kIf you don’t already have a screen lock set kThe next step is to verify your card with your kOnce verified, the last thing you need to do
up on your phone, you will need to set one up bank. In most cases, you will need to call a to start using contactless Google Pay in stores
now, for an additional level of security on top number specifically for Google Pay verification, that offer the service, is to enable NFC. NFC, or
of the app security. It is a good idea to set the but this can vary between different banks/card Near Field Communication, allows your phone
screen lock delay to zero. In some cases, small issuers. The number should automatically be to communicate with the contactless terminals.
purchases can be made even when the phone entered into your phone dialer. Call and follow Either turn it on here, or turn it on in your main
is locked. the instructions. setting menu.

Security and Advantages of Google Pay

Google Pay is not only secure, it also makes shopping easier, no matter if you are buying
a loaf of bread at your local supermarket or the latest fashions online.

Purchase Tracking
As soon as you make a purchase, you’ll see a payment confirmation that shows you
exactly where a given transaction happened, along with the merchant’s name and
number. So it’s easy to catch any suspicious activity.

Tokenisation
When you use your phone to pay in stores, Google Pay doesn’t send your actual credit
or debit card number with your payment. Instead it uses a virtual account number to
represent your account info – so your card details stay safe and secure.

Simple App Checkouts

Google Pay makes it easy to check out in apps and online. There is no need to enter your
card details every time you buy something. When you’re shopping in your favourite app
just choose Google Pay (if available) at checkout and save yourself some time.

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Using Google Apps

Get Inside the

Google Play Store
The Google Play store is, for almost all of your entertainment needs, a
one-stop shop. You can search for apps, books, songs, movies and
magazines, any of which can be accessed on your Android smartphone or
tablet and on your desktop.

1
2

1 Search 3 Play Store Content Controls

kYou can search Google Play just as you would search on Google. kYou can search Google Play just as you would search on Google.
When you type your search term, suggestions will appear below When you type your search term, suggestions will appear below
the search box. Previously searched terms that are similar will show the search box. Previously searched terms that are similar will show
at the top of the suggestions box. at the top of the suggestions box.

2 The Google Play Home Screen 4 Recommended Content

kThis is the main retail hub of Google Play, it contains the latest kThis area of the main menu screen of the Play Store screen is
releases by format and your personal recommendations for where you can view more in-depth information that is linked to
apps, books, movies and other media based on what you have your Google Play account. This contains links to: My Apps, My
searched for and installed previously. It can also be based on Wishlist, My Subscriptions, Redeem/Buy Gift card, My Activity and
recommendations by people in your Google+ circles. My Account, along with a guide for Parents.

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 Get Inside the Google Play Store

Download Apps & Files

Step 1
kDownloading apps, games, movies, music or books is
essentially the same process. Tap the app, movie or book you
want to download and read the information screen. If you
want to proceed, tap the install button or the price button.
If downloading apps or games, you will need to agree to the
permissions which are what the app needs to access on your
device, such as messages or certain settings. The app or game will
then install automatically.

My Applications
Tap the My Apps link and a list of all installed apps on
your device is displayed. The apps are split into sections
showing you those which are up to date, recently
updated and need updates (at the top of the list). You can
tap each app individually to update it or tap the Update
All button at the top of the screen. You will need to grant
permissions for each app that needs updating.

Step 2
kMovies, music and books don’t automatically download to your
device, so once you have purchased or chosen them, you will
need to pin them. Pinning means downloading, or keeping the
content on your device for offline viewing.

Account Settings
The My Account link will show you an overview of your
account activity, including you Play Store balance, Step 3
payment method and order history. Tap Settings to get kPaid apps and games
to the account settings screen. Here you can modify can be returned for a full
notifications, decide if apps are updated automatically, refund if you do so within
and whether installed apps are added to the home screen. two hours. You simply need
to open the app page on
You can also change content filtering settings, modifying
Google Play and the price
which apps can be downloaded based on their maturity
rating. In addition to that, you can set the Play Store button will say refund
to require authentication for purchases made on your instead. After two hours,
desktop or mobile devices. refunds are at the app
developer’s discretion.

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Using Google Apps

Create a Blog
with Blogger
Blogger is a great way to start blogging, as it is simple yet powerful and
allows you to get up and running easily without having to purchase a
dedicated domain. If you are new to blogging, and want to dip your toe in
without taking the plunge, Blogger is the way to do it.

Step 3
Get Started with Blogger kThe next thing to do is choose a style for your blog using the
The first thing to do is open www.blogger.com in your preset themes. There are several basic themes to choose from here
browser and sign in using your Google account username but don’t worry too much as you can easily change the style at any
and password. time. For now, stick with the default Simple theme. Click Create
Blog to continue.
Step 1
kThe main Blogger screen is fairly simple; until you create your
first blog, barely anything is shown here. You will see a couple of
buttons and some news from Blogger Buzz, the official Blogger
blog. To get started, click the New Blog button at the bottom
middle of the screen.

Step 2
kIn the window that opens, you can type the name of your blog,
which will appear as the heading, and choose the blog URL. Any
Google hosted blog will have .blogspot.com at the end of the
URL, with the part you add appearing before it. Try to choose a
URL which relates to the content of the blog, e.g. cupcakerecipes.
blogspot.com or mythoughts.blogspot.com.

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 Create a Blog with Blogger

Step 4
kYou will now be taken back to the main Blogger screen, with your
new blog listed at the top of the page. To the right of the blog title,
Your First Post
Blogging is all about posting. Posting ideas, thoughts, guides,
you will see several buttons. Click View Blog to open a preview of photos or anything else you can think of, but always posting,
your blog in a new window. Don’t worry that it looks boring, you posting, posting. The best blogs, those which gain loyal
can fix that later. followers, are the ones that not only post quality but which
post regularly. Before you get to that stage, let’s have a look
at your first post.

Step 1
kFrom your list of blogs, which will probably only have one in it
at the moment, click on the pencil/write button to the right of
the blog title. The compose screen will now open, showing all the
tools you need to post.

Step 5
kBack on the main menu bar, click the Stats link and select
Overview from the options that appear. Here you can see some
info about your blog: comments, pageviews, number of posts, etc.,
along with all of the main blog controls on the left of the screen.

Step 2
kStart by entering the title of the blog post in the Post Title box.
Your blog post titles are important as these are often what will
appear in the search results when someone searches for the
subject in Google or other search engines.

Custom Domain
Blogger offers two free publishing options for your
blog: hosting on Blogspot (example.blogspot.com) and
hosting on your own custom domain (www.example.com
or for.example.com). You can change your publishing
option at any time and your content will always
remain unaltered regardless of which of these options
you choose.

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Using Google Apps

Blogging with Blogger cont.

Step 3 Step 5
kBy default, you are in compose mode. This means what you kTo add a photo to your post, position the cursor where you want
see in the compose window is what the post will look like (the the photo to appear and click the Image button. You then have
formatting, etc.). If you know a bit about HTML, you can also write a number of options for choosing the image to use. If uploading,
in HTML mode. Start typing in the post box. click Upload and then the Choose Files button.

Step 6
kSelect the image from its location on your computer and it will
be displayed in the upload window. Click Add Selected to insert
the image into the post. To change the image size and position,
click on the image and use the controls that appear along the
Step 4 bottom of it.
kThe controls for altering font style, size and colour are along
the top of the compose box. The B, I and U buttons control
emboldening, italics and underlining of text respectively. The
next two buttons, the A and marker, control font colour and
background colour.

Step 7
kOn the right
of the compose
window are options
to add labels (which
make searching
for posts easier),
control the time the
post is published,
add a location
tag and make the
post a permalink.
When finished
with these options,
click Publish.

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 Create a Blog with Blogger

Step 8
kIf you use Google+, a share box will appear after clicking Publish.
This lets you easily share your new post with your Google+ circles.
Template Designer
If you prefer not to, just click the Cancel button instead. You can Blogger Template Designer is a new way for you to
view your blog post by clicking View under the title. easily customise the look of your blog. You can select a
variety of templates, images, colours and column layouts
to make your blog an expression of you. To get to the
Template Designer, just click on the drop-down menu of
the grey Post List icon and select Template. From there,
you can choose and customise your template.

While playing around with the Template Designer, you

can see a preview of how the blog will appear based
on the choices you’ve made. You can expand these by
pressing the toggle to Expand Preview between the
Blogger Template Designer dashboard and the preview.
When you’re satisfied with the look of your blog, you can
make them go live by pressing Apply to Blog in the top
right hand corner of the Template Designer.

To get started with Blogger Template Designer, select

a template for your blog from one of the professionally
designed templates that are available. Each template
Blogger on the Go appears as a large thumbnail that when clicked shows
further variations on the template below, that you can
then select by clicking on them. Note that clicking a new
Google’s Blogger app is also available as a mobile
template will erase any customisations you’ve made on a
application, for use with compatible Android smartphones
previous template.
and tablets. The mobile app enables users to post and edit
blogs, as well as share photos and links on Blogger, while
on the go, through their device of choice.

The mobile version of Blogger offers a similar amount of

functionality as the desktop version, allowing users to
edit blogs anywhere, through the app, and either publish
the blogs or save them as drafts to upload later. Other
features include: Sharing current locations on posts, this
is accomplished by tapping the My Location bar and
adding locations. Users can also share photos and links
directly to Blogger.

Blogger also provides dynamic mobile views for blogging

compatibility with mobile devices and smartphones,
giving users access to the core blog no matter their
location. NOTE: The Blogger app isn’t available for iOS
users at the time of press.

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 Google Hardware Guides

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 Google
Hardware
Guides
For many people Google’s hardware is fast
becoming an essential piece of home kit
and Google Home and Pixel are leading
the way in terms of quality and features.
In this section, we cover the key range
of Google’s hardware devices and much
more. Learn how to get the most from
your speaker or smartphone and how to
use this Google made hardware
to the fullest.

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Google Hardware Guides

The Google Home

Collection
There are now six different Google Home devices to choose from,
including the tiny Home Mini and the new Google Home Hub. The
specification and size varies greatly, so if you are not yet sure which Home
speaker is best for you, check out all of the details here.
Dimensions Mics
Google Home Max •
•
Width: 13.2” (336.6 mm)
Height: 7.4” (190.0 mm)
• Far-field voice recognition supports
hands-free use
• 6 mic array
Key Features: Meet Google Home Max, he helps you to hear • Depth: 154.4 mm
• Power cable: 2 m Processor
every note as the artist intended and feel every beat with heart • Quad-core ARM
Weight
pounding bass. It’s the ultimate speaker, made for your music. The • 11.7 lbs (5,300 g) • 1.5 GHz 64 bit quad-core ARM®
Cortex™ A53
advanced hardware delivers deep bass and crisp treble in stunning Colours
• Chalk, Charcoal Sensors
stereo sound. It analyses, tunes and updates itself automatically, so • Capacitive touch sensor
Materials
all you need to do is listen. The far-field voice control allows Max to • Acoustically transparent fabric • Ambient light sensor
hear you across the room, even while the music’s playing. • Rigid polycarbonate housing • Accelerometer
• Silicone base Power
Final Thoughts: The best audio-only based product in the • AC Power 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz
Supported audio formats
Google Home range. • HE-AAC, LC-AAC, MP3, Vorbis, WAV Ports & Connectors
(LPCM), Opus, FLAC with support for • USB-C™ • 3.5 mm jack
high-resolution streams (24-bit/96 • USB-C1
KHz) • 3.5-mm jack with analogue audio
Wireless input
• Wi-Fi • Bluetooth AC power
• 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5Ghz) Wi-Fi • 1USB Type-C and USB-C are
for high-performance streaming trademarks of USB Implementers
• Chromecast built-in Forum.
• Bluetooth® 4.2 Operating system
Speaker • Android • iOS
• Two 114 mm high-excursion (+/- 11 Other
mm), dual voice-coil woofers • Multi-room audio
• Two 0.7” (18 mm) custom tweeters
• Sealed rigid housing
• Acoustically transparent fabric

Dimensions Wireless
Google Home Mini • Diameter: 98 mm
• Height: 42 mm (1.65”)
• Wi-Fi • Bluetooth® support
• 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4 GHz/5 Ghz) Wi-Fi
• Power cable: 1.5 m • Chromecast and Chromecast Audio
Key Features: A powerful little helper; Google Home Mini keeps built-in
•
you informed and up to date with instant news, weather and Weight • Bluetooth® 4.1 input support
commute updates without lifting a finger. Master the kitchen; • Device: 173 g Sensors
• Power adaptor and cable: • Capacitive touch
Google Home Mini helps with timers, step-by-step recipes, and
approximately 75 g Speaker
conversions and substitutes. Start your Colours • 360 sound with 40-mm driver
smart home; it’s always improving • Chalk, Charcoal, Coral. Aqua Mics
with seamless connections to Materials • 2-mic array
• Durable fabric top • Mic switch
the latest compatible smart • External enclosure made from 20% Power
lights and thermostats. post-consumer recycled plastic • 5 V, 1.8 A
Final Thoughts: The • Non-skid silicone base Ports & Connectors
Supported audio formats • Micro USB port
budget range of Google • HE-AAC, LC-AAC, MP3, Vorbis, WAV Operating system
Home offers a great product (LPCM), Opus, FLAC with support for • Android • iOS
high-resolution streams (24-bit/96
for the price. KHz)

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 The Google Home Collection

Dimensions Colours
Google Nest Hub •
•
Depth: 67.3 mm (2.65”)
Width: 178.5 mm (7.02”)
• Sand, Aqua, Chalk, Charcoal
Display
• Height: 118 mm (4.65”) • 177.8 mm (7”) LCD touch screen
Key Features: See your life in one view and get things done
• Power cable: 1.5 m Speaker
hands-free. Google Nest Hub helps you make the most of
Weight • Full-range speaker
moments at home. With Voice Match, get your calendar, commute, • 480 g (16.9 oz) Microphones
reminders and more right on the home screen, for • 2-mic array
Sensors
example “Hey Google, show me my calendar. “ You • Capacitive touch
can even get the news, make a shopping list and Connectivity
place calls to friends, family and local businesses. • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® support
• 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4 GHz/5 Ghz) Wi-Fi
Voice-control compatible lights, cameras, TVs and
• Bluetooth® 5.0 support
more from a single dashboard. Power
Final Thoughts: Entry-level, video based addition to • 15 W power adaptor
the collection. Ports
• DC power jack

Dimensions Speaker Ports

Google Home • Depth: 67.3 mm (2.65”)
• Width: 178.5 mm
(7.02”)
• Full-range speaker
Microphones
• DC power jack
Operating system
• 2-mic array • Android • iOS
Key Features: Simplify your everyday life with the Google Home,
• Height: 118 mm (4.65”) Sensors
a voice-activated speaker powered by the Google Assistant. Use • Power cable: 1.5 m • Capacitive touch
voice commands to enjoy music, get answers from Google and Weight Connectivity
manage everyday tasks. Google Home is compatible with Android • 480 g (16.9 oz) • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth®
Colours support
and iOS operating systems, and can control compatible smart • Sand, Aqua, Chalk, • 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4
devices such as Chromecast or Nest. Charcoal GHz/5 Ghz) Wi-Fi
Final Thoughts: Perfect for the first time user, features a host Display • Bluetooth® 5.0 support
• 177.8 mm (7”) LCD Power
of abilities. touch screen • 15 W power adaptor

Dimensions Connectivity Mics

Google Nest Mini • Diameter: 98 mm
(3.85”)
• Height: 42 mm (1.65”)
• Wi-Fi • Bluetooth®
support
• 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4
• 3 far-field
microphones
• Voice Match technolog
Key Features: Meet the second generation Nest GHz/5 GHz) Wi-Fi
• Power cable: 1.5 m Sensors
Mini, the speaker you control with your voice. To play Weight • Bluetooth® 5.0 • Capacitive touch
your favourite music from Spotify, YouTube Music and more, just say • Device: 181 g • Chromecast built-in controls

“Hey Google”. It sounds bigger and richer with 40 percent stronger Colours Power and ports • 3 far-field
• Colours, Chalk, • 15 W power adaptor • microphones
bass than the original Mini. Ask your Google Assistant for help and Charcoal, Coral, Sky DC power jack Processor
get the best of Google – weather, news, or almost anything. Hear Materials Speakers • Quad-core 64-bit ARM
• Durable fabric top • Google Assistant CPU 1.4 GHz
your personalised schedule, commute and reminders. Set timers made from 100% built-in • High-performance ML
and alarms and even turn on the lights. Nest Mini is compatible with recycled plastic bottles • 360-degree sound hardware engine
hundreds of smart devices, such as lights, thermostats and TVs. External enclosure with 40 mm driver Operating system
made with at least • Android • iOS
Final Thoughts: The latest and best version of the Google 35% post-consumer
recycled plastic
Home range.

Camera Colours Connectivity

Google Nest Hub Max • 6.5 megapixel camera
with 127-degree wide
field of view and auto-
• Chalk, Charcoal
Display
• 10” HD touchscreen
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
support
Wi-Fi
Key Features: Make your smart home even smarter. Nest Hub framing (1280x800) • 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4
Max works with hundreds of smart home devices, including lights, • Face Match Speakers and mic GHz/5 GHz) Wi-Fi
technology • Stereo speaker system • Bluetooth® 5.0 support
TVs and thermostats, allowing you to easily control them all from • Quick Gestures • Google Assistant • Chromecast built-in
one place. You can also control compatible TVs, speakers and • Mic + camera switch built-in • 802.15.4 (at 2.4 GHz)
game consoles from Nest Dimensions • Stereo speaker system thread support
• Depth: 101.23 mm (2 x 18 mm, 10 W Power
Hub Max with your voice (3.99”) tweeters, 1 x 75 mm, • 30 W power adaptor
or from the screen. Turn • Width: 250.1 mm 30 W woofer)
Ports
them on and off; control (9.85”) • Far-field microphones • DC power jack
• Height: 182.55 mm • Ultrasound sensing
the volume, play, pause (7.19”)
Operating system
• Voice Match • Android • iOS
and search. • Power cable: 1.5 m technology
Final Thoughts: Adds Weight Sensors
• 1.32 kg (2.91 lb.) • Ambient EQ light
video based features sensor
to the Google Home,
a must!

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Google Hardware Guides

Google Home
First Time Setup
Setting up your Google Home device properly for the first time will make
using it much easier, so take the time to get things right. You will need to
have the speaker, an Android device, a Google account and a working
Wi-Fi connection that both Android and Home devices can connect to.

Setting Up Google Home

All of the setup for your Google Home speaker is done through the Google Home app for Android. Use this app for future access
and changes to the settings.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kPlug in your Google Home device and kCurrently, Google Home is only available kYou will need to make sure that your
wait for the audio cue to show it is ready for Android devices, and most have it mobile device is connected to the same Wi-
to be set up. Make sure that the switch pre-installed. If you don’t already have it, Fi network you intend to use for the Google
that controls the microphone is set to “On”. find the app on the Google Play store, Home speaker. It won’t work if you are using
If you accidentally turn the microphone download and install it on your mobile a 4G network to connect. Once connected,
off on your speaker, the device will inform device (phone or tablet). Once installed, open the Home app and confirm which
you accordingly. open the app. Google account you will use to log in.

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 Google Home First Time Setup

Step 4 Step 5 Step 6

kThe Google Home app scans for nearby kHopefully your device will be found by kYou should hear a sound on your speaker to
devices that are plugged in and ready to the app, displayed on screen and you can show it is connected. You can now continue
set up. If no devices are found, and you’re then tap Next to continue. If you are setting the setup by selecting the room it will be in
setting up a device, tap Yes. Make sure that up multiple devices, select the one you (this is just to identify the speaker), choosing
you’re near the Google Home device that want to set up first, and then tap Next. The your region, and setting the assistant
you’re setting up and it’s plugged into a app will now connect your phone to your language you want to use. Once done, you
wall socket. Then tap Next. new Google Home ready for configuration. will need to connect to your Wi-Fi network.

Step 7 Step 8 Step 9

kNext, to improve your Google Home kThe Google Home app will ask for kYou can now add your favourite services,
experience, set up Voice Match. Voice access to use your location to pre-fill your for example music. Spotify, Google Play
Match allows multiple users to use the address. This is the address where your Music, YouTube Music and Deezer are just
same device and get personalised results. device is located. If you allow access, your some of those available. If you add more
Follow the prompts on screen to teach address will be pre-filled; otherwise, you than one, you will need to choose a default
Google to recognise you. You can remove will need to enter it manually. When your music service. Follow the further on-screen
Voice Match settings later if you wish. address is entered tap Next. prompts to complete the setup.

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Google Hardware Guides

Play Music
on Google Home
Listening to the music you want on Google Home requires you to set up
the music services it uses. To do this you need to know how to ask the
speaker to play, stop, pause, shuffle and skip the music you want! Let’s take
a look at just how you listen to music on Google Home.

Choosing Music Services

You can connect your speaker to a great variety of different music services, from Google Play Music to Spotify and Deezer, which
will give you access to millions of songs.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kYou will have been asked to choose kIf you have a Google Play Music or kYou will now be taken to the music
a music service during the setup of the YouTube Red account (connected to the service Login screen, where you will have
Google home speaker, but if you skipped current Google account), these services to log in to your account (or create an
this step, or want to add more, you can will be linked automatically. To link one of account if you don’t already have one).
add services at any time. Open the Google the other music services, tap the small link Once this is done successfully, you will
Home app on your Android device and tap icon next to each one. Read the information be returned to the Home app where you
the +Add button on the Home tab. Then in the box that pops up and then tap will see the music service linked to your
tap Music and audio. Link Account. Home device.

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 Play Music on Google Home

Playing Music on Google Home

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kNow you have your music services linked kTo play a specific song, say “Hey Google, kThere are some specific commands for
to Google Home, you can start listening. play <song name>,”“Hey Google, play the different music services, but all of them
Exactly what music you can listen to <song name> by <artist name>,” or “…play will react to the general music control
depends on which service you are using. <song name> on <music service>.” Certain commands. These are: “Play,”“Shuffle,”
For example, you may not be able to music services will also allow you to search “Pause,”“Resume,”“Stop,”“Next,”“Skip,”“What
request certain songs by name if you only for songs by saying, “…play songs like song is playing?”“Volume up/down,” or “Set
have a Spotify Free account. <song name>.” volume to 5.”

Step 4 Step 5 Step 6

kGuests and housemates cannot access kYou can also play music from your kYou can use the Home app on your
your library content if you’ve set up Voice desktop Chrome browser on your Google Android device to control the music that is
Match. However, you can give them access Home speaker (as long as the computer is playing on your speaker. Open the app and
by uploading your music to their account. If connected to the same Wi-Fi network). Open tap the speaker name on the home tab.
you haven’t set up Voice Match, guests and the browser and start playing the music. Here you will see play and pause controls,
housemates can access music from your Click the Chrome menu button, select Cast along with a volume slider. Tap the Equaliser
library in the same way you can. and choose the speaker to play through. button to change bass and treble levels.

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Google Hardware Guides

Using Google
Home Routines
Routines are a set of actions that your Google Home can perform when
activated by a single voice command. You can customise existing preset
routines in the Google Home app, or you can create your own routines
from scratch, using a wide variety of available actions.

Create and Manage Routines

Learn how to customise, create and use Routines with your Google Home speaker and the Google Home app.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kYour Google Home app comes with kBelow each routine name, you will see kRoutines are split into sections:
several pre-set routines. To view or edit the number of associated actions. Tap a “When I say…”, (the command) “My
these, tap the Menu button at the top left, routine to start editing it. While all routines assistant should…” (the main actions
and select “More settings”. Scroll down and can be edited, you will notice they have to perform) followed by “And then
tap the “Routines” section. Here you will differing numbers of actions that can be play” (additional actions). You can
see displayed all of the existing routines, added. The pre-set routines illustrate manage and edit each of these
for example “Good morning” or “Bedtime”. this difference. sections individually.

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 Using Google Home Routines

Step 4 Step 5 Step 6

kFor example, the single command kTap the checkbox next to each action kYou can also change the command that
“Good morning” could take the phone off to add or remove it from the routine. If activates the actions (although you will
silent, tell you the weather alongside your the action has a gear icon next to it, you still need to say “Hey/Okay Google” first).
reminders and commute information. It can tap this to see further settings. For Most pre-set routines have a couple of
could then give you the news headlines example, the Play Radio action allows you commands already set, but you can add a
from a variety of sources (BBC, CNN, etc.) to choose the radio station you want to new one by tapping the top section, then
before playing your favourite radio station use, and music settings lets you choose the tap + and type your desired command and
until you tell it to stop. music source. then press Enter to activate it.

Step 7 Step 8 Step 9

kIf none of the pre-set routines meet kIf you wish, you can set a day/time of day kWhen you’ve finished setting up the
your needs, you can create your own from when the routine activates automatically new routine, tap the check mark at the
scratch. Open the routines settings in the although you can still activate the routine at top and the screen will change to display
Google Home app and tap the + button. other times with the command. Next, add all routines. Your newly created routine
Start by editing the command you want an action, either by typing the name of a will be given the name of the command
to use to activate the routine. Simple Google Assistant command, or by tapping word you used (e.g. “Entertain me”). Test the
commands seem to work best, so keep “Choose popular actions”, selecting one and routine by speaking the command to your
it short! tapping “Add”. Google Home.

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Google Hardware Guides

Play Music Using

Bluetooth
As well as being connected by Wi-Fi, your Google Home device can also be
used as a Bluetooth speaker, playing music that is stored on your phone
or tablet or even your laptop. You can also stream music from your Google
Home device to a pair of Bluetooth headphones.

Play Music on the Home Speaker

Being able to play music stored on your phone or tablet through the Google Home speaker is a useful addition to its bag of
tricks and opens up a host of new audio possibilities.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kOpen the Google Home app and tap the kNow open the Bluetooth settings on kIf the Google Home speaker is paired
name of the device you want to connect your mobile device and turn Bluetooth with multiple speakers, it will default to
with via Bluetooth. In the top right corner on. The device will scan for available the most recently paired device. You can
of the device info card, tap the device connections, and you should see the tell Google Home to connect by saying
settings menu and then find the Paired name you gave your speaker appear in “Hey Google, connect to Bluetooth,” or
Bluetooth devices heading and tap it. In the list of discovered Bluetooth devices. you can change which speaker is paired
the next screen, tap the Enable Pairing Tap the speaker name to pair the devices by opening the Bluetooth settings on
Mode button. using Bluetooth. your device.

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 Play Music Using Bluetooth

Step 4 Step 5 Step 6

kTo play music through the connected kYou can also use voice commands to tell kTo unpair the devices, open the Google
speaker, just use whichever music player your Google Home speaker to play music Home app and find the device card for
you normally use to play your device that is stored on your mobile device. Just the Google Home that you want to unpair.
music. When connected to the speaker say “Hey Google <song name> or <playlist Open the device settings and then go to
using Bluetooth, anything you play (from name>.” You can use all of the normal Paired Bluetooth devices. Tap the X next
MP3 files to YouTube videos) will play music voice commands to pause, stop, to the device that you want to unpair and
through the speaker. skip, change volume, etc. then tap Unpair.

Play Music on Bluetooth Headphones

You can also connect a set of Bluetooth headphones through the Google Home speaker and app.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kTurn on your Bluetooth headphones; kTap the Settings button and scroll kYou can only have one connected
placing them in pairing mode; this is normally down to find the Bluetooth options. Tap speaker or headphones to play music
done by pressing the pairing button on your “Default music speaker” and then tap through at a time. Once you pair and
headphones (a light will usually flash to tell “Pair Bluetooth speaker”. It will then scan connect your speaker to a Google Home,
you). Now open the Google Home app on for available headphones (or speakers) it will auto-connect unless the speaker is
your Android device and select the speaker and allow you to connect by tapping the disconnected. You can use normal Google
you want to connect to. name in the list of available devices. Assistant commands to play music.

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Google Hardware Guides

Google Home
Tips and Tricks
Your Google Home speaker is great for playing music or listening to the
news, but it also allows you to do so much more! From getting general
info, reading a recipe and finding your phone, to playing a game or telling
you a joke, there are literally 100’s of things it can do; here’s 10 of the best.

Listen to Audio Control Your TV

k Your Google Home allows you to k If you have a Chromecast plugged
listen to music, news, in (or built in) to your TV, you can
podcasts, radio stations, easily control it with your
audio books and Google Home speaker.
more. You can If your Chromecast
also tell it to is plugged in to
play ambient a power socket
sounds in the (rather than USB),
background. Just you can even use
say, “Hey Google, the speaker to
help me relax,” or turn your TV on
“Hey Google, play and off. Just say,
forest/nature/ocean “…Turn on the
sounds.” You can even TV,” or “…turn my
make it play white noise! TV off.”

Plan Your Day Create Lists

kStart your day off by k You can create a list
saying, “Hey Google, in the Google Home
Good morning,” to app and then add to
hear traffic, weather it using your Home
and news reports speaker. Once you
along with a list of have a list created, just
your appointments, say, “Hey Google, add
reminders, and orange juice to my
more; you can shopping list,” or “…add
also ask for these paper towels and hand
things individually. soap to my list.” For a
If you need to find reminder at any time
something nearby, just just say, “…what’s on my
say, “…where is the shopping list.”
nearest pharmacy?”
for example.

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 Google Home Tips and Tricks

Find Your Cook

Phone k You can find and
make your favourite
k Never lose your phone
recipes using step-
again! Provided Voice Match
by-step cooking
is set up, you can ask your
instructions. For
Google Assistant to ring
example, just say, “Hey
your phone. To do this say,
Google, find a recipe
“Hey Google, find/ring my
for pancakes,” you can
phone,” and your Google
then say, “…prepare
Assistant will ring your
the ingredients,” for
phone, even if it’s set to ‘Do
a list, followed by “…
Not Disturb’ mode.
start recipe.”

Manage Tasks Get Answers

k You can easily kYou can ask your
set and ask about Google Home to give
reminders by saying, you information about
“Hey Google, remind everything from finance
me to…” You can also to sports, you can ask for
use it to set timers and calculations, translations
alarms by saying, “Hey and unit conversions, for
Google, set a timer example, “Hey Google,
for 10 minutes.” If you how much is 1000
want to check how Danish Krone in dollars?”
much time is left just You can even ask for the
say, “…how much time nutritional information
is left?” You set alarms on most types of food.
in the same way.

Control Your Home Have Fun

k If you have smart home k Your Google Home
devices such as smart speaker lets you play
plugs, a Nest thermostat games with it, simply
or security cameras, say, “Hey Google, play
you can link them lucky trivia,” (other
to your Google games include Crystal
Home and control Ball and Mad Libs). If
them using your you don’t want to play
speaker. You a game, just tell it to
will need to add “…entertain me,” or
the devices in say, “...let’s have fun.”
the Home app, You can even ask it to
and follow any tell you a joke!
instructions to set
them up.

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Google Hardware Guides

The Google Pixel

Hardware
The Pixel range from Google brings a lot of nice features to the world of
smartphones and tablets. There is also the bonus of getting to use the
very latest version of Android as soon as it is released, in the way it was
designed to be seen and used.

Google Pixel 3 Google Pixel 3a

Key Features: Capture the perfect shot every time, get things done Key Features: Offers an extraordinary camera, fast-charging battery,
with the Google Assistant, enjoy an all-day battery and more. Pixel 3 top tier security and the helpful Google Assistant built in. Capture better
comes with a battery that charges fast and can last up to all day. It’s even pictures with Night Sight; you’ll never want to use your flash again.
smart enough to shut down the apps that you don’t use to keep you Night Sight lets you capture rich detail and colour, even in the dark.
going for longer. Pixel’s extraordinary camera is perfect for all your moments. Take flawless
Get everyone in the picture with Group Selfies - no selfie stick photos with portrait mode. Capture beautiful portraits that focus on
required. Snap portraits like a pro with Portrait Mode. Capture smiles, your subject as the background fades into a blur. Keep everyone in
not blinks with Top Shot, for a great photo every time. And save all your focus. Motion Auto-Focus will make sure that the people and pets in
favourite moments with free, unlimited online photo storage. your shot stay sharp as you snap away.
Flip your Pixel 3 face down and go from Bzzz to Shhh in an Do more with the Google Assistant; Send texts, find answers, get
instant. It will automatically turn on Do Not Disturb and hide all commute times and more - all with a simple squeeze or just by using
your notifications, so you can focus on what matters most. Use the your voice. Charges fast, lasts all day. Work, play, stream and get more
wind-down mode to turn the screen to grey-scale and get ready for done with a powerful battery that charges quickly and lasts all day
a good night’s sleep. (approximate battery life based on a mix of talk, data, standby, mobile
Final thoughts: A large leap in quality over the Pixel 2, a must. hotspot and use of other features, with always-on display turned off).
An active display or data usage will decrease battery life.
Final thoughts: A fantastic camera on a great entry-level phone.
Dimensions
145.6 x 68.2 x 7.9 mm
Weight Dimensions
148 g 151.3 x 70.1 x 8.2 mm

Display Weight
5.5in, 1080 x 2160 pixels (443ppi) 147 g

Internals Display
CPU: Octa-core (2.5 + 1.6GHz) 5.6 in, 2220 x 1080 OLED (441ppi)
Snapdragon 845 Internals
GPU: Adreno 630
Memory: 64/128GB RAM: 4GB CPU: Qualcomm® Snapdragon 670.
2.0 GHz + 1.7 GHz, 64-bit
Cameras Octa-Core. Adreno 615. Titan M
Main Camera: 12.2 MP security module²64GB RAM: 4GB
Selfie Camera: 8MP Cameras
Connectivity Main Camera: 12.2 MP
Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac DB Selfie Camera: 8MP
Bluetooth: 5.0 Connectivity
Battery Wi-Fi: 2.4GHz + 5GHz,
Li-Po 2915mAh Bluetooth: 5.0
Battery
3000 mAh battery

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 The Google Pixel Hardware

Google Pixel 4
Key Features: The Pixel 4 is the smartphone made the Google
way. The camera takes a perfect shot every time, while the
Google Assistant gets things done with just a squeeze. The
first phone to feature Motion Sense technology, you’ll be able
to control your phone in an intuitive and unique way. Best of
all, it’s built around the Google software that you know and
love, and it’s always getting better. The Pixel 4 will help you
take fantastic, studio quality photos anywhere, with no editing
required, and, with leading low-light capabilities, you can even
capture the Milky Way. With Quick Gestures, you have a new
way to control your phone. It’s great for when you’re exercising,
cooking, or enjoying your favourite taco. You can change tracks
and snooze alarms without touching your phone.
Final thoughts: The ultimate Pixel update, an
essential purchase!
Dimensions Cameras
68.8 mm x 147.1 mm x 8.2 mm Main Camera: 16 MP
Weight Selfie Camera: 8MP
162g Connectivity
Display Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac DB
Bluetooth: 5.0
5.7 in, FHD+ flexible OLED at
444 ppi Battery
Internals 2800 mAh
Qualcomm® Snapdragon 855™
2.84 GHz + 1.78 GHz, 64-bit Octa-
Core Memory: 6 GB LPDDR4x
Google Pixel Slate
RAM: 64GB Key Features: The Google Pixel Slate is made to deliver brilliant
entertainment, portable performance and everything you love
about Google for how you live & work today.
Experience the 12.3” Molecular Display with 6 million pixels
with the Google Pixel Slate. Plus, enjoy the premium, dual front-
firing speakers. Work offline with Google Docs, Sheets, and
Slides. Even read and respond to Gmail offline, the next time
you’re online, your emails will send automatically.
Connect your monitor, mouse and keyboard to turn your Pixel
Slate into a powerful workstation. Multi-task with split-screen
functionality. Plus, collaborate with built-in Google Docs, Sheets
and Slides.
The Duo Cam wide-angle lens helps you get everyone in one
shot, and look great, even in low light. And with up to 12 hours
of battery, Pixel Slate keeps up with you. Plus, when you need a
boost, get up to 2 hours of use in just 15 minutes of charge.
Final thoughts: A tablet with only a few peers.

Dimensions Cameras
291 x 202 x 7 mm Main Camera: 8 MP
Selfie Camera: 8MP
Weight
Connectivity
731g
Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac DB
Display
Bluetooth: 4.2
LCD 12.3in, 3000 x 2000 pixels
Battery
(293ppi)
48Wh
Internals
CPU: 8th Gen Intel Coe
GPU: Adreno 630
Memory: 128GB RAM: 8GB

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Google Hardware Guides

Google Pixel Tips

and Tricks
Google has brought a lot of changes to the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL phones,
including some fundamental ways you navigate and control your device.
Let’s take a look at some of the main new features of these amazing
devices, and how to make the most of them in your day-to-day use.

Suggestions in Overview
kAndroid Pie brings app suggestions in a couple of places, including in
the Overview. App suggestions will vary, depending on what you use
most, or what you have been previously been
using. To enable suggestions in
Overview, open Settings and
look for Suggestions.

Direct Reply
kThe latest version of Android on
your Pixel allows for Direct replies.
This means that you can open the
Accessing Overview notifications panel, see a message
kOverview allows you to quickly see and scroll through all of the apps from a contact, hit the reply button
you have been using and that are waiting in the background. To open the and type, without having to leave the
Overview, slide your finger upwards over the small pill-shaped button at the notification panel and open the app.
bottom on the screen. You can then scroll left and right through the open This feature needs to be enabled by app
apps, and even access the settings and search. developers, so you might not see it all the
time, but expect more and more apps to
Quickly switch between apps allow it.
kPreviously, switching between the last two used apps could be done
by double tapping the Recent Apps button. With Pie on your Pixel, this Open the App Drawer
function is still there, but is achieved by swiping left or right over the small k In previous versions of Android on Pixel, you opened the main app tray
Home button. You can also swipe and hold over the button to open a by swiping up from the bottom of the screen. With the new Home and
carousel of previously used apps (just like opening the Overview, but done Overview controls, you will need to get used to swiping up a bit further,
in one motion). taking the gesture past where the Overview will open. Try to swipe at least
1/4 of the way up the screen to hit the sweet spot.
Fingerprint Sensor Gestures
kDepending on how you hold your phone, the fingerprint sensor is
sometimes easier to reach than the top of the screen. Therefore, for some
users it will be easier to use the new fingerprint sensor gestures to open
the quick settings panel. Just swipe your finger down over the sensor to
open the panel.

Double-Tap to Wake
kIf you want to be able to quickly see the time, and any notifications you
have, but don’t like having the Always-on Display running, you can now
enable Double-tap to Wake. This allows you to quickly tap twice anywhere
on the sleeping screen to display the clock and notifications. Head into
Settings > Display > Advanced > Ambient display, to turn this on.

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 Google Pixel Tips and Tricks

Automatically Recognise Songs

kPreviously available only if the user was currently connected to the
Internet to get online, this feature has now been made local, meaning your
phone can detect when a song is playing and display information about
the song on screen. To enable the Now Playing feature, head into Settings
> Sounds > Now Playing.

Accessing the Discover Screen

kThe Android OS introduced the ability to have an extra page to the left of
the Home screen panels some time ago. This has been various things over
the years, but on Pixel 3 it is the Discover screen, displaying news topic in a
variety of categories. From the main home screen panel, swipe to the right
to access it, and then tap the settings icon to customise the content.

Send to Phone
kGoogle Send to Phone enables you to send text messages of Google
Maps content to your mobile phone. For example, you might text yourself
an address or location you’ve found.
To send something you’ve found on Google Maps to your phone, click
the link icon in the left panel. Cl ick Send and choose Phone from the
left side. Enter the required information and hit Send. You’ll receive a text
message with your selection. You can also send a local search result to
your phone, by clicking More > Send from the place marker’s location
information window.

Silence with a Squeeze Double-Tap to Wake

kGoogle Assistant can be opened by tapping and holding on the kIf you want to be able to quickly see the time, and any notifications you
Home button for a couple of seconds, just like with most other Android have, but don’t like having the Always-on Display running, you can now
devices. However, the Pixel 3 also lets you open Assistant by squeezing enable Double-tap to Wake. This allows you to quickly tap twice anywhere
the edges of the phone. You can find the options in settings > system > on the sleeping screen to display the clock and notifications. Head into
gestures > active edge. Settings > Display > Advanced > Ambient display, to turn this on.

Sharing Maps Using My Places

kYou can share maps via a short URL, an HTML embed, email, text kUsing My Places, you can create custom, annotated Google Maps that
message and even send maps to certain GPS units and cars. To generate a include place marks, lines and shapes. You can even add descriptive text
customisable embed code or URL, click on the link icon to the top left of and embed photos and videos in your map; then share your maps with
your display. Check the Short URL box (or whatever you require) or click the others. This can be handy for mapping out your favourite restaurants,
link for Customise and Preview Embedded Map. If you want to send the planning an upcoming holiday or saving biking routes for future reference.
link out, rather than copy/paste the text that’s been generated, click Send
for further options.

Camera Quick Launch

kOn the Pixel 3, you can double press the power/standby button to quick
launch the camera. The settings for this button control can be found in
Settings > System > Gestures, where you can turn on “jump to camera” to
allow quick access from any screen.

Quick 2x Zoom
kIf you are taking a photo and want to zoom in on the subject quickly, you
can do so by double -tapping on the screen. This performs a 2x zoom, but
if you need more, you can still use the zoom slider to get even closer.

At a Glance
kThis feature lets you see calendar, weather or other information at the top
of the screen “at a glance”. You can enable and edit the information here by
tapping and holding on the home screen wallpaper, then selecting “Home
Screen Settings” and choosing the information you want to be displayed.

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Google Hardware Guides

How to Use Google

Chromecast
Streaming from the YouTube app can be extremely easy, even if you don’t
have a Smart TV. Chromecast is a thumb sized media streaming device that
plugs into the HDMI port on your TV. Set it up with a simple mobile app,
then send your favourite online shows, movies, music and more to your TV
using your smartphone, tablet or laptop. However, that doesn’t mean that
there aren’t more advanced tips and tricks you can use when setting up
your Google Chromecast correctly.

Set Up Chromecast Hardware

Before you can begin to cast content from your device to your TV or other large screen device, you will need to get the
Chromecast hardware connected and set up correctly.

Step 1
kEverything you need to get going is included in
the Chromecast box. You can plug your Chromecast
into any open HDMI input. If you do not have
access to a nearby power socket, you can power
your Chromecast by plugging the USB power cable
directly into an open USB port on your TV. Step 3
kOnce it is plugged in, you should see
Step 2 the Chromecast home screen. If you do
kUsing the cables and adapters that come with the not see the Chromecast home screen on
Chromecast is important. To Improve Wi-Fi reception your TV after setting it up, use the Input or
or if you are having trouble slotting the Chromecast Source button on your TV’s remote control
into an awkwardly placed HDMI socket, you can use to change the input until you see the
the HDMI extender included in the box. Chromecast home screen.

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 How to Use Google Chromecast

The Chromecast App

The official app is not the only way to manage your Chromecast device but it should certainly be the place you start.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kSome devices, particularly the Google kMake sure the device is connected to kTap next to Chromecast to connect. The
Nexus ones, may already have the your Wi-Fi network and then open the screen will change, as will the screen on
Chromecast app, which connects to Chromecast app. It should automatically your TV. This will show a code that needs to
the hardware plugged into the TV, pre- begin scanning for devices. Once found it match on both the device and the TV. Give
installed. If not you can download the latest will show your Chromecast in a list, along your Chromecast a name if you wish, such
version from the Google Play store for free. with any other compatible devices. as “My Chromecast” and then tap Done.

Screen Casting
Many media apps include a dedicated Cast button, used to project movies etc. to your TV. However it is also possible to cast your
device screen as well.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

kYou can cast YouTube and all of your kConnect your device to the same Wi-Fi kAnything you open on your device will
favourite apps, from your device to the big network as your Chromecast and open the now be cast to your TV via the Chromecast
screen. Casting allows you to mirror your its app. In the top left corner, touch the (where compatible). There are some
Android phone or tablet to the TV so that navigation drawer and then tap the Cast limitations to using screen cast but in
you can enjoy your great content exactly Screen button. Select your Chromecast general you can project almost everything
as you see it on your mobile device. from the list shown. from your device to the big screen.

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Google Hardware Guides

All About
Google Stadia
With their Stadia project, Google hopes to revolutionise how we play
games in the home and on the move. Their vision for the future is one
where it is possible to play games on virtually any hardware without the
need for expensive consoles or high-end desktops. Let’s take a look at the
hardware and explain how it works.

Stadia Speed Test

Before you begin your Stadia set-up, you need to ensure that your Internet connection is fast enough. Google has provided an
online tool to do just that.

Step 1
kOpen a web browser, preferably on the device with which you
intend to use Stadia, and enter the following URL: projectstream.
google.com Before you start testing your Wi-Fi speed you are
advised to limit web traffic, such as downloads or streaming.

Step 2
kOnce your Wi-Fi connection is free of other users, and clear of
apps, tap the blue Check Now button on the left side of the web
page. This activates the process, so you can simply sit back and
wait for the results to appear.

How Stadia Works

Google Stadia is a hardware-free, game streaming service
that enables users to play a catalogue of game titles on a large
variety of devices. All you need to play is the official Stadia
Step 3 joypad, a Chromecast, a screen and an Internet connection.
kWhen your Internet connection test is complete, it displays the
results; this should take no longer than 30 seconds. These come Stadia allows play on existing desktops/laptops computers,
in the form of a green tick for a pass and a red cross for a fail. A fail Smart TVs, tablets and smartphones. Play is enabled via the
essentially rules out Stadia compatibility. Stadia controller, which may indeed resemble a traditional
joypad, yet is much more than that. Such unique features,
exclusive to the joypad, include the ability to capture and
share your gaming footage directly to YouTube.

So basically get your device online, connect your joypad

and press play, that’s it!

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 All About Google Stadia

Getting Started with Stadia

Are you ready to play some games? Let us take you through the set-up of your Google hardware with your monitor or TV so you
can press Start with Stadia.

Step 1 Step 4
kUsing a mobile device (smartphone or tablet), you need to open kEnsure your Android mobile device connects to the same
the App Store on iOS, or Google Play on Android, and download Wi-Fi network you want to link to your Chromecast Ultra. Open the
the Stadia application. At this point, enter the invite code that was Google Home app and, from the home screen, tap Add +>Set up
emailed to you at purchase. device>Set up new devices.

Step 2 Step 5
kIf you wish to use your Google kFind your Chromecast Ultra from the list of new devices. Once
Stadia on your TV, you need selected, follow the instructions and the Google Home app pairs
to set up your Google your device to your home network, thus enabling Stadia streaming
Chromecast Ultra first. via your Chromecast.
NOTE: You need an
Android or iOS mobile
device to complete
setting up Chromecast.

Step 3
kOn your Android device, you need to download the latest build
of the Google Home App. Sign in using your Google account and
then connect the Chromecast to your TV via the HDMI input and
USB for power. Step 6
kFinally, if you wish to
play games on your
desktop or laptop, you
need to open a web
browser on the video
device you wish to use
and visit: google.com/
chrome and download
the latest build of the
Chrome browser.

What’s in the Box?

Having confirmed Wi-Fi compatibility, let’s start unboxing your
Google Stadia. Here’s what’s in store when you peel back the lid
of your Stadia Premiere Edition.

• A Single Google Stadia • Three Months

Controller Subscription to Stadia Pro
• A Chromecast Ultra • Documentation
• A Mains Charging Cable

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Google Hardware Guides

Step 7 Step 9
kNow let’s turn our attention to the Google Stadia Controller, once kSwitching to your mobile device, open the Stadia app, using
out of the box you need to ensure that your device is fully charged your invite code (if required), and tap the Controller icon to the
before you start setting up the controller itself. top right, you may need to enable Location access first. Select your
controller from the list of devices.

Step 8 Step 10
kOnce the device is fully charged, unplug the power cable. Press kYour Stadia controller starts to vibrate to confirm connection
the Stadia logo button on the controller for two seconds to turn it and then, when prompted, tap Yes on the mobile app. Now
on. A vibration confirms that you have powered up the device. tap Connect to your network using the same account as your
mobile device.

Step 11
kYou need to enter your Wi-Fi
password and then tap Connect
to Wi-Fi to complete the process.
Your controller may automatically
install an update, if it is required,
and then you are ready to play.

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 All About Google Stadia

Google Stadia Controller Controls Explained

With Stadia, the controller is the console, so understanding how this all-in-one device works is going to be essential to your
gaming experience.

Left Bumper Right Bumper

(L1) (R1)
Left Trigger Right Trigger
(L2) USB C Port
(R2)
Google Capture
Assistant
Menu
Options

Direction A B XY
Pad Buttons

Left Stick Right Stick

(L3) (R3)

Stadia Status Light

Button (Under Button)

3.5mm
Headset Jack

Left Right
Vibration Vibration
Motor Motor

Microphone

Understanding Capture and Share Footage

the Status Light If you have a YouTube channel, or simply want to share your gameplay
footage via social media, you can capture gaming using this button. Press
once to take a screenshot or hold to capture video.
Blinking White: Your controller is charged
and ready to access your
network via the linking code.
Solid White: The controller is powered on,
linked to a screen and ready
Stadia Official Specs
for use. Weight: 268g

Blinking Orange: The controller needs Dimensions: 163mm x 105mm x 65mm

connecting to a
Wi-Fi network. Internals: Custom 2.7GHz hyper-threaded x86 CPU with AVX2 SIMD
and 9.5MB L2+L3 cache. 16GB of RAM with up to 484GB/s of
Solid Orange: The controller is charging, performance. SSD cloud storage
when complete, the light
turns off. Colours: Clearly White, Just Black, Night Blue & Wasabi

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The Complete Google GuideBook industry, the publisher cannot guarantee that all software and/or any other device used in the process. If you are unsure, please do
tutorials, tips or guides will work on every version of the required not buy this publication.
ISBN: 978-1-912847-93-8 hardware. It remains the purchaser’s sole responsibility to The Complete Google GuideBook is an independent publication
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