How to create Google files and events without clicking through menus. – USA TODAY

Kim Komando| Special to USA TODAY

Most of us know at least some basic keyboard shortcuts. Ctrl + C for copy, Ctrl + V for paste, and the infamous Ctrl + Alt + Delete for when things arent going so well.

Thats not all. You can use your keyboard to paste text without its original messy formatting, take a picture of your screen, and create a virtual desktop to keep work and life separate. Tap or click here for seven shortcuts that will help you save even more time.

Speaking of time, heres a 30-second privacy check you need to do if you use Google or Facebook regularly. Do it now while youre thinking of it.

There are more ways to cut to the chase beyond a few keystrokes. If you use Googles Docs, Sheets, and Calendar, heres a smart, quick way to create new files and events without clicking through menus:

Microsoft Office is expensive. If you dont want to pay for Word, Excel, and all the rest, a free alternative is the way to go. Google isnt the only option out there. Tap or click here for seven free choices that do what Word does.

But if you do use Google Docs, heres a trick you need to know. The same goes for opening a new Google Sheet, Googles version of Excel.

A similar shortcut opens your Google Calendar with a new blank calendar entry for you to fill in, which is faster than going through your calendar itself or Google Drive.

First, make sure you're signed in to your Google account. Now open your browser. Enter in the type of file you want to create, along with ".new" in the browser's URL bar.

For example, you can open a Google Doc by typing in document.new or a calendar entry by typing cal.new.

Heres a handy list for reference. You can use any of the following shortcuts for each application:

Google Docs: document.new, docs.new, doc.new

Google Sheets: spreadsheet.new, sheets.new, sheet.new

Google Slides: presentation.new, slides.new, slide.new

Google Forms: forms.new, form.new

Google Keep: keep.new, notes.new, note.new

Google Calendar: meeting.new, cal.new

Google Meeting: meet.new

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If you use Google Docs, theres a good chance you use Gmail, Chrome, and other Google products too. Do yourself a favor and check out these guides to lock down your browser and wipe your personal details from the web.

Privacy fix: How to remove your address and phone number from Google search results

10 tips to keep Googles Chrome browser secure

The hidden privacy report in your phone you should start checking

PODCAST PICK: Traffic trick, YouTube shortcuts, golden privacy tip Komando.com

Want to erase yourself from the internet? Heres how. I'll also tell you how to predict traffic conditions months in advance. You'll learn about some YouTube keyboard shortcuts youll always use and Netflix changes that may come later this year. Also, a piece of history died in a ransomware attack. Here's what you need to know.

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Learn about all the latest technology on theKim Komando Show, the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website atKomando.com.

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How to create Google files and events without clicking through menus. - USA TODAY