Google Docs: How To Use Documents Outlines?

To use the Document Outline feature in Google Docs, follow these steps:

Create Outline with Document Headings

1. Open a Google Docs document.
2. Format your document by applying headings using Heading 1 (H1), Heading 2 (H2), and Heading 3 (H3) for a hierarchical structure within the document.
3. Select the text that will act as a heading, highlight it, and then:
   • Go to Format > Paragraph styles, or
   • Use the "Styles" drop-down list from the toolbar to choose the heading style.

View and Use the Document Outline

1. To view the Document Outline, click on 'View' in the menu bar, then select 'Show Document Outline' or use the shortcut key Ctrl + Alt + A + H.
2. The Document Outline will appear as a sidebar on the left side of the document, displaying the headings you've formatted in an outline structure.
3. Click on any heading in the outline to be navigated directly to that specific part of the document.
4. To hide the Document Outline temporarily, click the left-pointing arrow at the top-left corner of the outline itself. Click this again to view the outline.

Modify or Remove Headings in the Outline

1. To remove a heading from the Document Outline without deleting it from the document, click the 'X' to the right of the heading in the outline.
2. To add a heading back to the outline, select the heading text, right-click, and choose "Add to Document Outline" in the context menu.

FAQ

Q: How do I create a new outline for a document?

A: Start a new document, format your document using H1, H2, and H3 headings as needed, and the Document Outline will populate automatically as you apply these headings to your text.

Q: Can I hide the Document Outline while editing?

A: Yes, click the 'X' or left-facing arrow at the top-left corner of the Document Outline to hide it temporarily while editing the document.

Remember that the Document Outline is dynamic and adjusts as you format or modify headings within your document. It will help you to structure, navigate, and work more effectively in your Google Docs documents.