Saving Google files

A benefit of working with a Google app is the auto-save feature. Google apps save in real-time. There is no Save button in the toolbar or Save option in the File menu. As soon as you type something or enter data, it is saved. There is no need to specify a file location (although you can) or click a Save button. 

Google files are saved in your Google Drive. This means that the files are accessible to you anywhere you have an internet connection and can be opened and edited with any device. 

NOTE: There is no exercise file for this section. If you would like to complete the steps on your own, please create a new Google Docs document, Slides presentation, or Sheets workbook. 

Naming a Google file

When a new file is created in Google, whether it is a document, spreadsheet, presentation, or form, it will need to be named. Naming a file in Google is a simple process.

In the upper left corner of the file, there is a Rename box. When working with a newly created file, this box will look like this: 

NOTE: Keep in mind that the Rename box might refer to a spreadsheet, presentation, or form depending on which Google app you are using. 

If you are working with an older file, the existing name will appear in the Rename box. 

Selecting the file location

By default all Google files are saved in your Google Drive. There is no need to select Google Drive as the file location. However, you may have folders in your Google Drive and want to save a file to a specific folder. 

The document has been moved to the folder. 

Exploring the auto-save feature

When working with a Google app whether it's Docs, Sheets, or Slides, every keystroke is automatically saved to your Google Drive. 

Next to the menu bar, there is an indicator of when the file was last saved. This may say something like "All changes saved in Drive" or "Last edit was yesterday at 10:28 AM." 

As you enter text or data, this indicator will change to say "Saving..." then "All changes saved in Drive."