Easy Tech TutsHow to Track Changes in Google Docs Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Collaborating on a shared document without a proper edit-tracking workflow can lead to confusing overwrites. This guide covers switching to Suggesting mode, reviewing color-coded edits, and using Version History to audit the full change log.
01Switch to Suggesting mode
Click the pencil icon in the top right of your document and choose Suggesting from the dropdown to start tracking edits.
02Make your suggested edits
Type new text or delete content, and Google Docs will color-code your changes and open an inline suggestion box.
03Accept or reject suggestions
Click the checkmark in the margin to accept an edit, or the X to reject it and revert the text.
04Comment on a suggestion
Reply inside an active suggestion box to discuss a specific wording choice with your collaborators.
05Review the full change history
Click File, hover over Version History, and select 'See Version History' to audit every past edit and contributor.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I'm in Suggesting mode?
The pencil icon in the top right will display 'Suggesting' rather than 'Editing' when the mode is active.
Can I force collaborators into Suggesting mode only?
Yes, adjust the document's sharing permissions to give external users 'Commenter' access, which limits them to suggestions.
What happens if I accept all suggestions at once?
There's an option in the suggestion menu to accept or reject all changes in bulk.
Do suggestions expire if left unreviewed?
No, suggestions remain pending indefinitely until someone accepts or rejects them.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
