how do you print a google doc with comments

how do you print a google doc with comments

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where the printed version of your Google Doc doesn’t include all the comments and annotations made within the document?

How to Print a Google Doc with Comments

Printing a Google Doc with comments can be a bit tricky, but it’s not impossible. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to achieve this:

Method 1: Use Google Drive’s Built-in Features

  1. Open Your Google Doc: Log into your Google account and open the Google Doc where you have added comments.
  2. Navigate to the Share Tab: Click on the “Share” tab at the top right corner of the page.
  3. Add Viewers: If your document has collaborators or viewers, ensure they have the necessary permissions to view comments.
  4. Print Settings: Go to the “Print” option from the same share tab. Choose the “Print” button to initiate the print process.
  5. Select Options: In the print dialog box, you will see an option labeled “Comments”. Make sure it is selected so that your comments are included in the printout.

Method 2: Use Third-Party Tools

If Google Drive’s built-in features don’t meet your needs, there are several third-party tools that can help you print your Google Doc with comments.

  1. DocSend:

    • Upload your Google Doc to DocSend.
    • Enable printing options including comments.
    • Download the PDF file which includes all comments.

  2. PDFescape:

    • Convert your Google Doc to a PDF using PDFescape.
    • Include comments in the PDF.
    • Download the final PDF for printing.

Method 3: Manual Annotation

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, you can manually annotate your document before printing.

  1. Copy and Paste Comments: Copy all the comments and paste them into a new section of your document. This method requires manual effort but ensures every comment is visible.
  2. Highlight Important Comments: Use different colors or formatting to highlight important comments. This makes them easier to spot when printed.

Method 4: Use Google Apps Script

For advanced users, Google Apps Script can automate the process of printing Google Docs with comments.

  1. Create a Script:
    • Open Google Docs and click “Tools” > “Script editor.”
    • Write a script that reads your document and prints it along with comments.
  2. Run the Script: Execute the script to generate a PDF or another format that includes comments.

Conclusion

While Google Drive’s built-in features provide a straightforward way to print documents, sometimes additional steps or tools may be necessary. Whether you choose to use third-party services, manually annotate your document, or write custom scripts, ensuring your comments are included in the printed version is crucial for maintaining the integrity of collaborative work.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Q: Why should I print a Google Doc with comments?

    • A: Printing a Google Doc with comments allows you to review the document offline and provides a permanent record of discussions and feedback.

  2. Q: Can I print comments without converting to PDF?

    • A: Yes, you can print comments directly from Google Docs if you select the appropriate print settings. However, some printers might require additional steps to ensure all comments are included.

  3. Q: Are there any limitations to printing comments?

    • A: Typically, Google Docs prints comments as part of the document. However, some older printers or specific settings might exclude certain elements like comments. Using a PDF or a third-party tool can help overcome these limitations.

  4. Q: What happens if my document has a lot of comments?

    • A: Printing with comments can slow down the printing process. Consider using a third-party tool or manual annotation to manage large volumes of comments effectively.