Bullet points are a great way to organize your thoughts and make your documents more readable. Google Docs has a handy shortcut that will save you time and keep your formatting consistent. Let’s get into how to use the bullet point shortcut in Google Docs.
Step by Step Tutorial: Using the Bullet Point Shortcut in Google Docs
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about what these steps will do. By following these, you’ll be able to quickly add bullet points to your documents using shortcuts, without having to click through menus.
Step 1: Place the Cursor
Place your cursor where you want the bullet points to start.
This is the starting point for your list. Make sure you’re in the right spot!
Step 2: Use the Shortcut
Press “Ctrl + Shift + 8” on a PC or “Command + Shift + 8” on a Mac.
This keyboard combination will automatically start a bulleted list for you.
Step 3: Start Typing
Begin typing your list.
As you press “Enter” after each point, a new bullet will appear.
Step 4: End the List
Press “Enter” twice to end the bullet point list.
This will return you to the normal formatting.
After you complete these steps, your document will have a nicely formatted list with bullet points. This makes your document easier to read and your points clearer to the reader.
Tips for Using the Bullet Point Shortcut in Google Docs
- Remember the shortcut: “Ctrl + Shift + 8” for PC and “Command + Shift + 8” for Mac.
- You can also use “Ctrl + Shift + 7” for a numbered list as an alternative.
- If you want to indent a bullet point, you can press “Tab” after creating a new bullet.
- To move a bullet point back a level, press “Shift + Tab”.
- Use bullet points to break up large chunks of text and make your document more visually appealing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I customize bullet points in Google Docs?
You can change the style of your bullet points by clicking on the bullet list icon and selecting a different style.
Can I use keyboard shortcuts on Google Docs mobile app?
No, these keyboard shortcuts are not available on the Google Docs mobile app.
What if the shortcut doesn’t work?
Make sure that your cursor is in the body of the document and that you’re not in a header or footer.
Can I add sub-bullets or nested bullet points?
Yes, after creating a bullet point, press “Tab” to create a sub-bullet.
Is there a way to quickly remove bullet points?
Yes, highlight the list and press “Ctrl + Shift + 8” again to remove the bullet format.
Summary
- Place your cursor where you want bullets.
- Press “Ctrl + Shift + 8” on a PC or “Command + Shift + 8” on a Mac.
- Start typing your list.
- Press “Enter” twice to end the list.
Conclusion
Using the bullet point shortcut in Google Docs is a simple yet effective way to enhance your documents. Whether you’re taking notes, creating an outline, or making a presentation, bullet points help to make complex information digestible. With the handy keyboard shortcuts, “Ctrl + Shift + 8” for PCs and “Command + Shift + 8” for Macs, you can quickly add bullet points without ever having to take your hands off the keyboard.
Remember to keep the tips in mind to customize and manage your lists effectively. Use indentations and proper formatting to make your points stand out and maintain clarity. Bullet points are not just about listing items; they’re about creating a flow in your document that guides the reader through your thought process. Explore different styles and make use of sub-bullets to create depth in your lists.
With practice, the use of bullet points will become second nature to you, and you’ll find that your documents look more professional and are easier to follow. Happy documenting!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech content online for more than ten years. He enjoys writing about Google Docs in addition to many other applications and devices and has cumulatively covered Google’s word-processing application in hundreds of different articles.
He has been published on dozens of popular websites, and his works have accumulated millions of pageviews.
While focused primarily on tutorials and guides for popular electronics like the iPhone and iPad, as well as common applications like Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel, he covers topics across the entire technology spectrum.
You can read his bio here.