While tools such as Microsoft Word and Google Docs are often the most popular, other tools, such as Dropbox Paper, offer a wealth of features that make document creation simple.

A Quick Overview: What Is Dropbox Paper?

Dropbox Paper is an online document workspace developed by Dropbox. In other words, you can use Dropbox Paper like you would any other word processing tool. However, being online, you can simply use Dropbox Paper to collaborate with other team members.

Every document you create using Dropbox Paper is included within your Dropbox files. This makes it easy to find all of your documents by logging in to Dropbox.

The 7 Best Features Inside Dropbox Paper

Dropbox Paper features a simplified interface with plenty of room for text, images, videos, and more. And there are plenty of features to help you make the most of your documents. Here are seven of the best.

1. A Plethora of Keyboard Shortcuts

Dropbox Paper features a wide range of keyboard shortcuts to help you navigate the tool without the need for distracting toolbars and menus. For example, you can insert an emoji by simply typing “:”.

The better news is, if you forget a shortcut, you can view them on your screen. Inside your document, select the keyboard icon in the bottom right of your screen. The various shortcuts will be listed there.

2. Easy Timelines

Are you using Dropbox Paper to plan future projects? One of the best tools for doing so is by inserting a simple timeline right into your document.

You’ll find the Timeline tool in the toolbar at the bottom of your document. Simply select the icon that looks like a calendar from the options.

You can then add new tasks by clicking on the days within your timeline. You can also assign teammates to the tasks and check them off as you complete them.

3. “Templatize”

Is there a document you find yourself creating over and over again? If so, you can easily create a template of the document (in just a couple of clicks) to use whenever you need it.

Simply select the three-dot menu at the top of the screen. Then, scroll and select Templatize. This will allow you to create a template document you can use later.

4. “Present This Doc”

If you wish to share your document during a meeting, you can do so by using the Present feature. In the upper right corner of your screen, you’ll see a projector screen icon that features a “play” symbol.

By clicking this icon, you can present your document in full screen. There’s no need to create another slideshow, which can save you some serious time.

5. To-Do Lists

Need to track new project to-dos during a meeting? Want a simple way to create a new to-do list for yourself? You can easily create a list inside Dropbox Paper.

You’ll find the feature inside the toolbar at the bottom of your document. The icon is the checkmark with a box around it. Click it, and a customizable task will appear.

You can also assign these to-dos to others within your team. And to complete a task, simply check the box beside it.

6. Insert Media & More

Images, videos, and GIFs all add something special to an otherwise mundane document. You can add various media types right into your document by using the toolbar.

The first icon in the toolbar (which looks like a photo with a landscape) will allow you to insert images right from your computer. The second icon (which looks like a play button with a box around it) is for all types of media.

Dropbox Paper links directly to services such as Unsplash, which offers free stock photos. You can also insert GIFs from Giphy and videos from YouTube. When you find the media you want, simply select Add to doc.

Sometimes, you want to link other documents when creating a new one. This is especially helpful when planning new projects or creating meeting notes.

You can add links to other Dropbox Paper documents into a new document simply by typing +. Then, insert the document’s name or add a link to the document.

The result is a hyperlink that will open the document when clicked.

Dropbox Paper Is an Excellent & Simple Word Processing Tool

If you’re looking for a simple yet powerful word processing tool, Dropbox Paper might just be a great choice.

We recommend getting inside Dropbox Paper and experimenting with the many features to see if it fits your needs.