Hiding version history in Google Docs can be a useful trick to keep your document changes private. Whether you’re working on a sensitive project or simply don’t want others to see the evolution of your work, this quick guide will show you how to do it in a few simple steps.
Step by Step Tutorial on Hiding Version History in Google Docs
Before we jump into the steps, it’s important to know that completely hiding version history isn’t possible in Google Docs. However, you can create a new document which won’t have the old version history attached to it.
Step 1: Open the document you want to hide the version history for
Open the Google Docs document whose version history you want to hide.
Step 2: Click on ‘File’, then ‘Version history’, and select ‘See version history’
This will open a panel on the right side showing all the different versions of your document.
Step 3: Make a copy of the document
Create a copy of the document by clicking on ‘File’ and then ‘Make a copy’.
When you make a copy of the document, the version history doesn’t carry over to the new document. The new document will start with a clean slate, as if it was just created.
Step 4: Rename the copied document
Give the copied document a new name so you can differentiate it from the original.
By renaming the document, it helps you to keep track of which document is the original and which is the copy without the version history.
Step 5: Share the new document (optional)
If you need to share the document with others, share the new copy without the version history.
After you’ve completed these steps, you will have a new document that looks exactly like the original but without the version history. This means that when you share this new document, the recipients won’t be able to see the changes you made previously.
Tips on Hiding Version History in Google Docs
- Always make sure to double-check that you’re sharing the correct document—the one without the version history.
- Remember that hiding version history doesn’t delete it. The original document will still have all the previous versions.
- If you want to keep a record of the version history for yourself, make sure not to delete the original document.
- Use descriptive names for your documents to avoid confusion between the original and the copy.
- Consider using this method as a way to present a final draft or a clean version of a collaborative document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely delete version history in Google Docs?
No, it is not possible to completely delete version history in Google Docs. The only way to hide it is by creating a copy of the document.
Will making a copy change the formatting of my document?
No, making a copy of the document will retain all the formatting and content from the original.
Can I restore version history in the new document?
No, once you’ve created a new document, the version history from the original will not be accessible in the copy.
Is there a limit to how many copies I can make?
There is no limit to how many copies you can make, but it’s important to manage your files to avoid clutter.
If I share the original document, can others see the version history?
Yes, if you share the original document, others with access can view the version history unless you change the sharing settings to restrict their permissions.
Summary
- Open the document.
- Go to ‘File’, select ‘Version history’, then ‘See version history’.
- Make a copy of the document.
- Rename the copied document.
- Share the new document (optional).
Conclusion
Hiding version history in Google Docs might seem like a daunting task, but it’s quite straightforward once you get the hang of it. While you can’t delete the version history, creating a new document essentially gives you a clean slate to work with. This can be particularly useful when finalizing documents or when you need to present a clean version to stakeholders. Remember, the original version history remains intact, so you can always go back to it if needed. As you master this skill, you’ll find it to be a valuable addition to your Google Docs toolkit, ensuring that your document’s evolution remains just between you and Google Docs.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.