Currently, it is recommended that you create a Gmail account with which to login and share docs using Google Docs.  You may experience difficulties sharing documents if you choose to use your CofC or Edisto email address.

If you already have a Gmail address then you have access to Google Docs and can jump down to the "Getting Started with Google Docs."  If you do not have a Gmail address then begin by following the directions entitled "Getting your Google Login."

Getting your Google Login

1. Using your web browser go to http://google.com.
2. At the top of the window click on the Gmail link.
3. From the Gmail login page click on Create an Account on the right side of the window.
4. Complete the Create an Account form then click I accept.  Create an account.
5. If it worked you will see the Congratulations window.  Now click on the Gmail icon on this page.
6. This will take you to your Gmail account. 
7. You have successfully created your Google login.

Getting Started with Google Docs

Logging in

1. Using your web browser go to http://google.com.
2. At the top of the window click on the Login link.
3. On the login page use your Gmail email and your Gmail password then click Sign In.
4. You should now be sent back to the Google search page and your email will appear in the upper right portion of the window.
5. From here click the More link then choose Documents.  You should now be at your Google Docs home.

Creating a New Document

1. From the New menu choose Document.  A blank document will open.
2. You'll notice that it looks a bit like Microsoft Word and operates in the same way.

   

    

3. Click inside the Document Body and begin typing.
4. To apply a formatting change, highlight the text then click the appropriate format from the Formatting Palette.
5. Make sure to save often by clicking on the Save button in the upper right of the window.

Sharing the Document with Someone Else

Sharing a document allows you to collaborate with one or more individuals or open the document to your professor for grading.  You can allow them to meerly read the document or have full editing rights.

1. Open the Google Doc you wish to share.
2. Click on the Share button from the upper right area of the window and choose Invite People.
3. From the Share with Others window make sure you are on the Invite People tab.
   1. Next to Invite type in the email addresses of those with which you wish to share.  NOTE:  try to avoid using Edisto or CofC email addresses when sharing.  This will result in an incorrect link being sent to your collaborators.
   2. Choose whether you wish them to only view or be able to edit the document.
   3. Next type in an invitation message.
   4. Click Send to send the invitation and activate the sharing capabilities.
4. You will then have the Permissions tab displayed
5. Click on Save & Close.
6. Your document is now shared and available for editing or viewing by those invited.

The individuals you invite will receive an email asking them to share the document with a link to the document.  Just click on it and login to begin collaborating.

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