How to Write a Novel in Google Docs

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  • Опубліковано 16 чер 2024
  • "Google Docs is so boring to write a novel in." Actually, IT'S NOT. You're just using it wrong!! Most writers don't know this, but Google Docs has tons of hidden features that can make your writing experience fun, organized, and super aesthetic! In today's video, we're diving deep into writing a novel with Google Docs. I'll show you how to create a beautiful and functional workspace for writing, plotting, brainstorming, and character outlining. PLUS I'm sharing some exclusive Google Doc templates to glow up your outlining process. Grab your work-in-progress and let's get started!!
    GET THE TEMPLATES HERE 👉 abbieemmonsauthor.com/store/w...
    ________________________________
    ✨ T I M E S T A M P S ✨
    00:00 Introduction
    02:30 Manuscript navigation
    06:53 Building your workspace
    09:22 Outlines
    11:28 Character profiles
    18:18 Settings
    19:38 Research
    21:10 Notes
    22:02 Index Card Outline
    25:40 Customizing colors
    27:25 Recap
    29:36 Subscribe for weekly writing videos :)
    ________________________________
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    MORE VIDEOS YOU WOULD LIKE:
    → HOW TO WRITE SUBPLOTS
    • How to come up with NE...
    → THE ULTIMATE CHARACTER PROFILE
    • The Ultimate CHARACTER...
    → HOW TO STAY MOTIVATED TO WRITE YOUR NOVEL
    • How to Stay Motivated ...
    → MY CHAPTER-BY-CHAPTER OUTLINING METHOD
    • How to Write a CHAPTER...
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    ✨ A B O U T ✨
    My name is Abbie Emmons I teach writers how to make their stories matter by harnessing the power and psychology of storytelling, transforming their ideas into a masterpiece, and creating a lifestyle that makes their author dreams come true.
    Story isn’t about “what happens” - it’s about how what happens affects and transforms the characters. I believe that there is an exact science (a recipe, if you will) behind a perfect story. And if you know what ingredients you need, you can create your own perfect story with ease and confidence. That’s what we talk about every week on this channel - and if it’s something you’re into, be sure to subscribe and join this community!

КОМЕНТАРІ • 658

  • @_Pix_
    @_Pix_ Рік тому +1244

    You posted this right as I was writing a novel in Google docs :D

  • @norsecosmos
    @norsecosmos Рік тому +592

    I've written my whole first book (fantasy ~ 450 pages and 130,000 words) without ever using the Heading feature because I never understood how it worked. I'm now in the Second Draft of that book, so I will definitely be using that now so I can stop scrolling through hundreds of pages to find chapters... Thanks Abbie 😂

    • @horsegirlsb9870
      @horsegirlsb9870 Рік тому +24

      You can press “ctrl” and “f” keys at the same time to do a search. I use it when I want to find some specific phrasing. Headers are easier but it’s a good backup or when you can’t find the right chapter.

    • @HM-cp7gy
      @HM-cp7gy Рік тому +18

      I'm in the same boat! I have a ~450000 word first draft that takes forever to fully load. hopefully this will make things less time consuming on the second draft!

    • @gregvondare
      @gregvondare Рік тому

      Friend, you will never be a successful author and you should immediately seek work in a hair salon of similar venue.

    • @nicolemadrigal4315
      @nicolemadrigal4315 Рік тому +11

      I need to get like you, I've been writing a fantasy book since 2021 and I'm only on page ten.

    • @milchteexoxo3515
      @milchteexoxo3515 Рік тому +4

      @@nicolemadrigal4315 You and me both!

  • @muse9236
    @muse9236 Рік тому +1037

    I have used most of these features while writing some of my projects in Google Docs. However, one important feature that you didn't bring up was the value of Google Sheets. It is a spreadsheet option much like Excel. I use this like my Project Bible. I can also include links to the individual documents that give more information. So characters for example are all listed where I can see their physical descriptions and quirks, but then link to their in depth character profile. Add another sheet within the same document for world building, etc. so each "folder" can be divided into tabs with their own information.

    • @Ingrid-jx7iz
      @Ingrid-jx7iz Рік тому +14

      Yes! Google sheets is so great for this I also use it for my plot grids:)

    • @y-m-x
      @y-m-x Рік тому +3

      Yesss! I also make index cards on Google Sheets. It's so useful!!

    • @Maevann
      @Maevann Рік тому +15

      This sounds like an idea that I may want to try. I'm a visual learner. Were there any videos or blogs that aided you in using sheets or did it just happen organically for you?

    • @muse9236
      @muse9236 Рік тому +13

      @@Maevann For me, it was organic. I used sheets for other things and learned the system then so it was a natural transition. Sorry I'm not much help on that

    • @catcat63527
      @catcat63527 Рік тому +3

      Oooo. I hadn't thought of this. Thank you.

  • @PupCake1025
    @PupCake1025 Рік тому +452

    Google drive nerd here, I have some extra tips!
    1. You can also use the subsequent headings (1-4) to make nested outlines. For example, you could make a wider Character Profiles document and have headline 1 as protagonist/antagonist/side characters, then heading 2 as the character name, and headline 3 as each subsection for the character (basics, internal conflict, etc). You can also use this for your story outline, dividing it into acts, then chapters, then major events or however you like to do it.
    2. 17:22 You could create these image boards as a drawing (insert -> drawing -> new, import the images to the drawing using the image icon next to the text box icon), then they’ll all stay grouped together. You can double click the drawing to edit as needed, but docs will treat it as a single image.
    3. 20:36 ctrl+v pastes. Ctrl+shift+v pastes without formatting. In addition, if you want to hang onto the webpage you can highlight the title/header of the document and use ctrl+k to make it into a hyperlink for the site you pulled the info from. Just copy/paste the url.
    4. 22:53 if you prefer pageless documents, go to file -> page setup -> pageless. You can also choose a different background color here if you want a different aesthetic for or just if you find pure white to be a little difficult on your eyes during long writing sessions.
    5. View -> full screen. If you’re good with your keyboard shortcuts (command+b for bold, etc, there are also shortcuts for making text into a header) you can work without the potential distraction of all the tools at the top. The outline is still visible in this mode.

    • @imasinner3086
      @imasinner3086 Рік тому +3

      Hey, I would like to know how I can insert the text box at 16:26. I hope you can help me out, thank you!!!

    • @PupCake1025
      @PupCake1025 11 місяців тому +4

      @@imasinner3086 Insert -> Table -> 1x1 :) There should be a little downward facing arrow on the right side of the text box, click that then click the option that shows a border around the whole shape and the toolbar (which normally shows the options for changing font and all that) should switch to some options that let you change the color, line width, and line style of the border (plain line, dotted, or dashed). Sorry for the late reply but I hope that helps!

    • @KaylaLaCoste
      @KaylaLaCoste 10 місяців тому +2

      omg the second one is genius! So helpful, thanks!

    • @grim789
      @grim789 10 місяців тому +2

      Thanks friend appreciate you taking the time to add more on this.

    • @Sports4TheSoul
      @Sports4TheSoul 7 місяців тому

      ​@PupCake1025 I just came across your comment here and have a question. How can I format the manuscript in a way that the inner margin and outer margin is different on alternating pages so that it makes room for the binding?

  • @meghalidutta3515
    @meghalidutta3515 Рік тому +156

    OH MY GOD. This came at the perfect time Abbie you have no idea. I was literally going to start writing my novel right now, and was looking for writing tools. I decided that Ill stick to Google docs, and was just binge watching your videos about outlining. Thank you so much!

  • @spicychilly3636
    @spicychilly3636 Рік тому +320

    I have been writing my story in Google Docs for more than three years but this video is more helpful. Thanks, Abbie!❤
    I have so many chapter outlines, so having an organized index cards for chapters is very helpful! I can just tap in and see where I stopped and what future sections/parts I need to write for my next chapters! Thanks so much, Abbie!

    • @soli4941
      @soli4941 Рік тому +1

      What's it called? are you anywhere close to publishing it?

    • @spicychilly3636
      @spicychilly3636 Рік тому +2

      @@soli4941 oh no! I just saw your reply after a month. So sorry about that.
      About publishing, not anytime soon. It might take me a decade or two, as far as I know that I will publish it after a long, long time because I have been busy with my studies, work, and other responsibilities that I just write stories for fun and as a hobby. But I do take writing this story very seriously, and it's also a wish for me to publish this book in my life. It's a story about the main character finding purpose in her life and her origin what she really is (not superpowers but normal people), and at the same time villains and other characters realizing their worth and doing what's right for the world. It's a journey for characters to redeem and recover writing it in thriller genre, involved with little romance and many friendships and teamwork.

  • @EyeBallMonster
    @EyeBallMonster Рік тому +115

    For someone that uses Google Docs so much this was really helpful and helps me not make a mess of notes and stuff in one document!!!! Thank you so much for this video! I hope you have a great day and i can wait to use this in my next novel and fanfiction! Thank you writer friend! 😁

  • @Jus-X
    @Jus-X Рік тому +37

    I've been writing novels using docs for years. A few additional things to note is the "summary" feature. Rather than using a separate file, you can create a summary within the document itself, in which you can copy/paste into your query submissions when Lit Agents ask for them. You can add your beta and alpha readers as a collaborator, they can highlight, leave notes, and suggest edits. Also, Hemingway makes an app extension for Chrome (unsure about Safari) where it will highlight and point out grammar and spelling mistakes the Google interface didn't catch, in addition to passive voice, and all the other good things we know and love about Hemingway.

    • @Roma_eterna
      @Roma_eterna Місяць тому +1

      Assuming you’re not referring to the writer, what’s Hemingway? I assume that’s an app or software?

  • @jessicageil1614
    @jessicageil1614 Рік тому +50

    I’ve been using word for four years, and it just gave out on me as in preparing to publish my first novel next year. I changed to Google docs and have felt completely overwhelmed by all I have to learn about self-publishing, and now needing to learn how to use a new word processor. Thank you so much for what you do ❤

  • @EVELYN-qk4wq
    @EVELYN-qk4wq Рік тому +15

    Awesome!! What I will do is to use a colour code for the index cards: red is todo, yellow is in progress, blue is first draft and green is done. In scrivener you can assign labels for the status. And for those using Notion keep in mind that it doesn't safe. For this reason I'm using notion just for brainstorming BUT you have the possibility to insert the Google docs in notion. For example, you buy Abbie's templates and customize them and then you embed them into Notion. That makes sure, your work is safe. 😊

  • @miraculousmari3518
    @miraculousmari3518 Рік тому +1

    Abbie, I just wanna say you, Jenna Moreci, Jerry Jenkins, and the rest of my favorite authors and youtubers have helped and inspired me so much. Love y'all great writing mentors so much 💗

  • @amberrooney5543
    @amberrooney5543 Рік тому +12

    This by far was the best $7 and 45 minutes I have spent when it comes to writing. I want to write a book so bad but never know where to start, how much research I should do before I start, how much world building, and etc. I have not known how to organize my thoughts into something that made sense and it has kept me from really starting and digging in for so very long. I feel like the folder I created following along with your video is going to help me so much. Thank you. I also can't wait to binge all of your other videos now, because if they are even a tiny bit as helpful as this one was, I can only imagine what I am about to experience!

  • @sarahglover3286
    @sarahglover3286 Рік тому +12

    I always write with Google Docs, it makes it easier as I can edit them on any device! Also chapter points with the heading thing are helpful!

  • @estefizamora
    @estefizamora Рік тому +11

    This video couldn't come in a more perfect moment, I just started using Google docs for my writing project (I'm an amateur in all things writing 😅), and this video just helped me to organize everything pretty nicely 💜thank you, abbie

  • @alexandrahill9176
    @alexandrahill9176 Рік тому

    Thank you so, so much Abby for making not only this video but the templates as well! I have been writing my recent stuff on and off since 2019 in Google Docs and tried to organize it my own way, but I'd always get so scrambled without any clear direction within the folders you instructed us to make here. I got the templates right away after seeing the character profile you and they are going to make my life so much easier! I thought about buying Scrivener and I've tried it, but there's just a lot of things to work with. I know I don't have to use everything there, but it's still really overwhelming to me. This is such a perfect middle ground for what I need for this new writing project I'm working on and I cannot wait to implement these templates in the 2nd draft of my NaNoWriMo project I finished back in 2019. This is amazing and I love all of your videos. Thank you again!

  • @rachael.m.
    @rachael.m. Рік тому +22

    Love this thank you so much for posting Abbie. I use Google docs as my main writing tool, and this will help me organise my writing projects a lot. The index cards are brilliant and will be very helpful to me. I would suggest creating a Master folder, so all you need to do is copy the master folder when creating a new project and all your templates are blank and ready to go. ❤

  • @HahaGirly1212
    @HahaGirly1212 Рік тому +3

    U posted this right as I wrapped up my book planning, I’ve been planning for months and I’m so exited it the first book idea where I feel like the MC is actually relatable. And I finally came out of writers block, ahhhh feel sooooooo goood❤😅

  • @user-nq1ry1nn3x
    @user-nq1ry1nn3x Рік тому +2

    ABBIE! I can't thank you enough! I've been using Google Docs for quite some time and have never really felt like it was a great way of organizing my writing. This video has helped me improve in so many different ways. Thank you, thank you!

  • @Phnxgirl
    @Phnxgirl Рік тому +11

    I will say for the character/setting type documents, I prefer using Slides myself. For me it just is a lot smoother when trying to incorporate both text and images in a document. But I love how you broke down all the elements into easy to use sections!

  • @JakeSmith-mq5dc
    @JakeSmith-mq5dc Рік тому +1

    Google Docs has been kicking my butt for over a year now, and you have blown my mind in so many ways with this.
    I actually feel motivated to try and make stories again. I am excited!

  • @sarthakshevde9023
    @sarthakshevde9023 Рік тому +61

    This is soo helpful! As someone wanting to have scrivener's functionality while writing, this is so helpful for aspiring writers! Thank you so much for this video :)

  • @lorijo3342
    @lorijo3342 Рік тому

    Thank you for this! I have watched this video several times and am finally digging in today and setting it up. I have been feeling smothered for years with fragments of writing; this has cleared the way and makes it fun and not overwhelming. Again, thank you, Abbie!

  • @authorgkray
    @authorgkray Місяць тому

    Abbie!
    My current WIP in Docs needed some major reorganization before I continue it and this tutorial helped SO MUCH. Not only to better-serve my goals in the manuscript, but to also understand / use Docs more efficiently. Thank you so much!

  • @jamescarvey2133
    @jamescarvey2133 Рік тому +3

    Thank you Abbie for explaining how to use Google Docs so effectively. As a person who is still new to the writers' arena, you are a major influence on my writing trajectory. Undoubtedly many others -like me-look to you for inspiration and professional guidance. Much appreciated my friend and yes-Rock On!!!!🌹

  • @mh7936
    @mh7936 Рік тому +2

    the time and effort and care that goes into making all these templates and this wonderful breakdown and help does not go unnoticed!!! i appreciate this immensely. i've been using scrivener with the free trial and plan on buying it soon but i cant quite afford it right this second since its not really a necessity lol so this is very helpful. i've always loved google docs while also knowing that i didn't quite know how to use it to its full potential and never took the time to learn to use it to my advantage (same as excel, been dying to use sheets well!) and this is such a good way to start and get some organization. thank you so much, abbie! xx Karla

  • @Asadude69
    @Asadude69 Рік тому +6

    I've been a Google Docs guy for several years and for me, its the mobile access. I purchased the Scrivener thinking I was gonna be in front of the monitor more but I've found I'm rarely sitting in the office writing. Its the phone or tablet at the coffee house or on lunch breaks. So until Scrivener manages that... In the meantime, I've got zero complaints with Drive's features. Thanks for the templates Abbie, I'll put 'em to good use!

    • @Roma_eterna
      @Roma_eterna Місяць тому

      lol! Good to know that I’m not the only one using my phone or tablet to write. I just got a Bluetooth keyboard, so now I can properly write! 😀

  • @ruqayasalhin944
    @ruqayasalhin944 Рік тому +4

    OMG THANK YOU I NEEDED THIS!!!

  • @nswang
    @nswang Рік тому +1

    you’re amazing your videos gave me back inspiration to write again, I haven’t been motivated for sooo long

  • @mageprometheus
    @mageprometheus Рік тому +15

    Thanks Abbie. I've moved from Scrivner to Obsidian. Not an easy option but if you're ok with javascript there really isn't a limit to custom workflow.

  • @amyakilo2269
    @amyakilo2269 Рік тому +24

    I literally just started my novel on Google Docs, whaaaa😮
    Love your content Abbie!

  • @mary_vids
    @mary_vids Рік тому

    Thank you. You have no idea how helpful and right on time this video is🔥
    You're blessed!💛

  • @TiaLove28
    @TiaLove28 Рік тому +11

    I NEEDED THISSSS!!!!

  • @peter_shaunadventures
    @peter_shaunadventures 4 місяці тому +1

    I just watched this video. Then reorganised my entire google docs drive. This took me an hour to do. Thats time well spent I think. This truely is gonna take my writing to the next level. As all my writing documents were completely unorganised. Thank you abbie for doing this video.

  • @Quartzmane
    @Quartzmane Рік тому +26

    This is really helpful. Back then, I stopped using Google Docs, cuz it was hard for me to do & I couldn't keep up, but now that you've made this video, I finally got my stuff organized & I can remember where to keep them. Thank you so much for the advice. You're amazing!

    • @amberrooney5543
      @amberrooney5543 Рік тому

      Yes, this was an amazing tutorial! I just created an entire template folder whit all of these sub folders and templates that I can just copy for each new book! (:

  • @ElisabethA-gq4cn
    @ElisabethA-gq4cn Рік тому +1

    This video came at the perfect time! I've just started outlining and worldbuilding! Thank you sm!!!

  • @_kmCarter
    @_kmCarter Рік тому +1

    This video could not have showed up at a better moment. I was *literally* planning to transfer/backup my Scrivener novel to Google Docs this weekend. Thanks, Abbie!

  • @antonina2191
    @antonina2191 Рік тому +1

    Thank you for this video. Decided to use Google docs since i often switch between devices and Google docs is the best tool for this matter. Definitely going to use those tips to keep my work process organized. Thank you again ❤😂

  • @jimaiello750
    @jimaiello750 4 місяці тому +1

    I'm looking to write my first novel. I have the general plots and subplots in my head, along with character outlines.
    Having never written before, I have been looking for an adult ed or some other training program on exactly how to format and organize my writing.
    Your video is perfect. It doesn't spend too little or too much time for subject, it's very comprehensive, and provides an organized infrastructure for the publication.

  • @kcherbel9230
    @kcherbel9230 Рік тому +1

    Love Scrivener and the scene/chapter cards feature. But the basic manuscript/character/setting/notes organization just rocks!

  • @vandanachandekaranand8448
    @vandanachandekaranand8448 Рік тому +1

    This was great. I have my own system of working in Google docs, but I learnt a lot of new things. Thank you dear.

  • @didyoujust7810
    @didyoujust7810 Рік тому +3

    Nice! I work in Google Docs and I had the manuscript pretty organized, but my Drive was a mess! This has given me some ideas how to sort it out. Ten minutes and it already looks so much cleaner and less confusing.
    I don't have to name each document in such a long winded way now that I have enclosed folders!!
    Thanks!

  • @HP-mk2lw
    @HP-mk2lw 8 місяців тому

    I totally had this video saved since you uploaded it. I was never a big fan of Docs but have been struggling with something to type in right now because nothing it working for me. So I’m giving this a shot and pulled the trigger on your character profiles because they are so well done. Thank you for this video.

  • @for.ivy_haya6712
    @for.ivy_haya6712 Рік тому +12

    Thanks Abbie for this vid! Please make one on how to write a novel on Ms word!

  • @herddog77
    @herddog77 Рік тому +1

    This is exactly what I've been needing. I have Scrivener and love it, but I write on two devices (especially while traveling) so Google Docs is necessarily my go-to method. Thank you SO MUCH!

  • @MissAfropuff
    @MissAfropuff Рік тому

    So fun! I write and work in Docs and hadn't thought about half of what you covered. Thanks, Abbey!

  • @RainisaurusRox
    @RainisaurusRox 10 місяців тому +1

    Thank you so much. Only started writing a few weeks ago and heard alot about ploting and planning. I see myself more like a discovery writer so I was afraid of doing this actual backwork. And here you are, changing evrything with one video. Your tamplates are awesome, looking forward to work with them. I am only 10 pages in and when I copied the character template a few times for the characters I already had appearing, that are alot of characters :D. I named one of them Abby now, I couldn`t find a name for her. This is so cool, thank you!

  • @GeorgiaPeach05
    @GeorgiaPeach05 Рік тому +4

    This is so helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video!
    At some point, it would also be helpful to see a video on how to make Microsoft Word similar to Scrivener as well. Thanks again, Abbie!

  • @camillegomez5368
    @camillegomez5368 Рік тому +1

    I'm only 2 minutes in but I am LOVING this video and can't wait to see your tips and tricks for writing in Google docs and character pages.

  • @grace7961
    @grace7961 Рік тому +1

    Ty for this video! I’ve been writing my novel on google docs for many years now and I definitely need some organization, thanks Abbie!

  • @ACS402010
    @ACS402010 10 місяців тому +3

    As a long time writer who has always preferred Google Docs over Scrivener (but caved and purchased Scrivener a couple of years ago, and am finding it a little complicated), this is amazing! Thank you ever so kindly!! I had no idea Google docs had all of this going on...lol

  • @micahgivens8701
    @micahgivens8701 Рік тому

    So dope! Thanks for taking the time to set this up and to share it with the people!

  • @RaineNeal
    @RaineNeal Рік тому

    Thank you so much for this! I was getting so overwhelmed and uninspired in my writing process but this is so fun and organized!! Much appreciated!

  • @seankrug4995
    @seankrug4995 Рік тому

    Super helpful!
    I’ve already been using Google docs for writing, but there were several functions I was unaware of. Thanks so much for sharing your skill set Abby!! 😅😅

  • @butterkuchen.3197
    @butterkuchen.3197 5 днів тому

    This helped me really well as I felt kind of stuck after I discovered that my last writing software not matching my writers needs very well played a significant part in my current writers block. Thank you a lot Abbie!

  • @Al-rn5qy
    @Al-rn5qy Рік тому +3

    Your video is awesome, Abbie! I've been writing my novel in Google Docs, as I do not have access to Scrivner. Therefore, you could imagine how excited I was to watch this. Keep up the great work encouraging us aspiring writers💪

  • @frontrunners3245
    @frontrunners3245 10 місяців тому

    Game changer video wonderful value, I was just about to start writing a new book, perfect timing it saved me from making the common all-on-one-page mistake thanks it was amazing,

  • @juliabeers4869
    @juliabeers4869 4 місяці тому

    I've been watching your channel for years (since 2021, I think)! I cannot afford Scrivener, so I've been trying to emulate the same process you talk about doing there in Google Docs this whole time (to no avail)! I'm so excited that you put out this video! Thank you!
    P.S. You're the reason that I started writing again. I had given up on my dreams...until I found your channel! You introduced me to indie publishing and a world I only thought existed in my dreams. I am SO GRATEFUL that you decided to start posting on UA-cam! I do not know how to thank you. When I publish my debut novel I'm going to put you in the acknowledgements and send you a copy!
    I do not know if this is acceptable thanks; but if there's anything I can ever do for you, please let me know!

  • @mallorycarpinski1160
    @mallorycarpinski1160 Рік тому +1

    Just read your book in one day! Thoroughly enjoyed it! Great work!

  • @2006HondaCivicD
    @2006HondaCivicD Рік тому +1

    I've been juggling between using word and libreoffice to write my manuscript. These are helpful tips to have my drafts organized 👍

  • @michellederoche-johnson9977

    Wow I am blown away--thank you so much for the templates and the education!

  • @TheresaOliverAuthor
    @TheresaOliverAuthor Рік тому

    Thank you so much for this info! I've been using Google Sheets to stay organized for a while but never used everything you have here. Thanks, again!

  • @Harshitha-511
    @Harshitha-511 5 місяців тому +1

    This is really helpful tysm Abbie ❤😄

  • @LilyCWfan22
    @LilyCWfan22 Рік тому +1

    Thank you so much for this video! I didn't know all this was possible!

  • @biancaborgesfauro1453
    @biancaborgesfauro1453 Рік тому

    Just a note on your delicious English. As I am not a native speaker, for me it is a delight when someone pronounces such and every word so clearly like you. Thanks!

  • @sparklingwithjoy8232
    @sparklingwithjoy8232 Рік тому

    Thank you sooooo much Abbie!!!! I love you so much! I live on google docs and needed something like this soooo much. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

  • @demonio9401
    @demonio9401 Рік тому

    Most generous writer and teacher on the internet. Thank you so much : )

  • @grace.stewartt4224
    @grace.stewartt4224 6 місяців тому

    I’ve been writing on Google docs for a year now, this was SOOO helpful, thank you! ❤

  • @Reverie545
    @Reverie545 3 місяці тому

    Literally just started my fantasy book on google docs.Thank you for the tips Abbie deffo using them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • @michelleduncan9728
    @michelleduncan9728 Рік тому +1

    Thank you so much for this video! I've been working on my first novel manuscript in GD and have always been thinking it's so boring. I am looking forward to spicing it up with your templates and guidance. Thanks again, Abbie!

  • @unholymetaphor
    @unholymetaphor 8 місяців тому

    This is so helpful for not only creative writing but also for large university papers and theses. Thank you!

  • @alexwithrow9262
    @alexwithrow9262 Рік тому

    I have heading titled “You Are Here (date)” so I know where to start. I just cut and paste it at the end of the last sentence I wrote. Can’t always write chapter to chapter and it makes it so much easier to find where I left off. Thanks for always posting such great content!

  • @sunilsatawlekar3972
    @sunilsatawlekar3972 6 місяців тому

    Fantastic solution! Going to try right this evening!! Thanks Abbie.

  • @Missy04
    @Missy04 Рік тому +36

    oh Abbie, thank you so, so much!! I've started using Google Docs for fanfictions years ago and I have to say it's the best collaborate tool so far with all the useful options to share and get feedback without sending files to anyone via mail or other ways and you even have an amount of control over what people can do with your text. Thanks a lot for your great templates, I'm definitely gonna make use of them for the trilogy I'm writing atm. your videos helped me so much with my writing :)

    • @Anonymous-wi6ig
      @Anonymous-wi6ig Рік тому

      Wait people can't copy and paste what's on a doc if you share it with them and allow them to edit, right?

    • @Missy04
      @Missy04 Рік тому

      @@Anonymous-wi6ig in the docs I edit, anyone who has access to them as an editor can copy & paste anything. Not sure if there's a way around it.

    • @Anonymous-wi6ig
      @Anonymous-wi6ig Рік тому

      @@Missy04 oh that sucks. I'm just worried about getting a beta reader if they're able to do that.

    • @Missy04
      @Missy04 Рік тому +1

      @@Anonymous-wi6ig yeah I get it. That's why I share it with close friends only. But at least you can prevent someone from making a copy of your doc or create another share link.

  • @AC-pk2ry
    @AC-pk2ry Рік тому

    This help so much thank you! I've been writing in docs forever now this really help out so much! ❤

  • @RogerFordTheSmilingBassHole
    @RogerFordTheSmilingBassHole 6 місяців тому

    I'm a Word expert, but am taking a course where I need to use Google Docs. This tutorial was awesome! I learned so much already! And I purchased the 3 templates for my memoir project.

  • @KaylaLaCoste
    @KaylaLaCoste 10 місяців тому

    girl, thank you so much! Just finished writing my first chapter on google docs then found this video, so helpful!!

  • @johnsolitude45
    @johnsolitude45 7 місяців тому

    I found a lot of value in this and bought the templates. Thanks!

  • @cuppajoylady
    @cuppajoylady Рік тому

    Absolutely fabulous tutorial!! Thank you!

  • @mizzkain
    @mizzkain Рік тому

    Thanks so much, Abbie! I knew about the heading/outline but it never occurred to me to change it up and set it up like Scrivener!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

  • @dracaramel2
    @dracaramel2 7 місяців тому

    i've had this video in my Watch Later list for ages, so excited to reorganize and try nanowrimo this year

  • @ShmurplesArePurple
    @ShmurplesArePurple Рік тому +8

    I've written 3 novels in google docs and I honestly really like it. I already did the chapter headings but the other ideas in here are unique too. I keep a seperate google doc for planning(seperated into plot and character sections), manuscript, graveyard (for things i have to delete but like the writing of), and lastly an editing notes doc for editing notes i have *while* writing the first draft so i can remember what i want to change but don't edit yet because if i keep editing while writing, I'll never finish.

  • @ValerieElkins
    @ValerieElkins Рік тому

    Abbie this is a HUGE help! Thank you for doing this.

  • @taytaythehufflepuff8532
    @taytaythehufflepuff8532 Рік тому +2

    Okay, why didn't I know that google drive existed and worked like this? I've been having to scroll through countless google doc tabs for MONTHS, complaining that there was not a better organization system
    Abbie, you are our HERO. TYSM!!!!!!!!
    (Also, any who are unaware, on the far left side there's a little button w/ three lines, and that opens up a little tab that can instantly take you to other google sites (Docs, drive, sheets, slides, and forums). I've used it before to get to google sheets easier than just typing it up in the search tab.)

  • @mattsager914
    @mattsager914 Рік тому

    omg its SO helpful. just the comments alone. I'll write in a new character, highlight their name, and outline their whole arc in a comment or two! but i didn't know half this stuff so THANK YOU

  • @prajaktakarekar1111
    @prajaktakarekar1111 6 місяців тому +1

    feels like hitting a jackpot after watching this video.. thanks a lot Abbie🥰

  • @kirksellman1999
    @kirksellman1999 Рік тому +1

    Very useful. Thanks for making this for us.

  • @meganduff6391
    @meganduff6391 Рік тому +1

    This was seriously SO helpful!!!!!! I've just finished working in Word on a project and it's been driving me nuts.....Google Drive is definitely my preference. I'll be switching over for the next one now that I've got the basics set up for Project 2!!!! ♥

  • @Redneckthinker
    @Redneckthinker 11 місяців тому

    I did not know this was available, as I had rarely explored Docs. Thank you!!!!

  • @socialanxiety9153
    @socialanxiety9153 Рік тому +1

    Thank you Abbie!! I was looking to change from Dabble (a great writing tool with the option for writing goals and much like scriviner) and this is great!

  • @ZombieSirenMusic
    @ZombieSirenMusic Рік тому

    This is perfect thank you. I love using Google docs and have never used scrivener. I did buy the templates, which I don't normally do, but you set them up so well! I can't wait to use them

  • @elysesmith4292
    @elysesmith4292 11 місяців тому

    This is EXACTLY what I needed!

  • @akeel_1701
    @akeel_1701 Рік тому +1

    Hullo, Abbie! Great series of tutorials, absolutely brilliant!
    I've been working on an epic novel for some time now, and I've been using Microsoft Word, but this new method you've shown us looks intriguing so I might give it a wee bash!

  • @SNHeath
    @SNHeath Місяць тому

    Thank you so much. I have been trying to get my novel off the ground. I just felt so overwhelmed with where and how to start. I appreciate the organization and templates, much needed. Thank you again.

  • @TheColdCreature
    @TheColdCreature Рік тому +1

    Exactly what I needed. I can't be buying new software - when docs is already there for me :) thank you so much for making those docs available!! ❤

  • @yaemikoswife7649
    @yaemikoswife7649 Рік тому

    This is just what I needed. I love using google docs to write and I’m on my first novel!

  • @readingandrain
    @readingandrain Рік тому

    I was pausing the video every few seconds to do what you were doing. This was so helpful, thanks!

  • @slytherinlass1986
    @slytherinlass1986 Рік тому +1

    I love Google docs. So far it's the best free platform I've used. I'm writing a novel with it right know so this video is very helpful.

  • @Ria-rl8oy
    @Ria-rl8oy Рік тому

    Thank you so much Abbie I need this video 💖

  • @TheExhaustipatedBookworm
    @TheExhaustipatedBookworm Рік тому +1

    OMG!!! THANKS FOR POSTING THIS VIDEO!!!!❤❤❤ I write my novel in Google docs now.

  • @pamdwriter
    @pamdwriter Рік тому

    Thank you so much. Writing a novel in Google Docs has been a bit of a nightmare with everything in one document, so this video is awesome!