Google Drive is a file storage and synchronization service developed by Google. Google Drive allows users to store files on their servers, synchronize files across devices, and share files. Upload, create, share files/folders and gain tips on file management within Google Drive.

District Google Account

  • Auto-Save - Never worry about saving again! Google does it for you.

  • Data Storage - Google for Educators has UNLIMITED storage until July 2022. (changes to 100TB pooled with all HISD users)

  • Ad free - Education account has no ads.

  • Collaboration - Collaborate with others in real-time. You can literally watch someone else typing.

  • Search - Search your drive for documents using a keyword.

  • Secure User data - Education account does not tack or collect data on its users. Complies with federal COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act) & FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Agreement)



Should you turn on automatic converting?

Determine if you always want to convert uploaded to documents to a Google Docs editor or if you are choosing to use Google Drive as a storage place. If you choose not to always convert, you do have options to open files with Google Docs editor.

  1. Select Gear icon.

  2. Select Settings.

  3. Place a checkmark in Convert uploaded files to Google Docs editor format.

  4. Click Done.

If you choose not to automatically convert, you can right-click and "Open with Google Docs/Sheets" and make changes to a file.

Some items on this website are linked from the GCFLearnFree.org website.

Getting Started (Video length 2:25)

For a hands-on challenge, navigate to Google Drive - Getting Started with Google Drive. Find the challenge at end of the webpage.

Creating New Files (Video length 2:00)

For a hands-on challenge, navigate to Google Drive - Creating Google Docs. Find the challenge at end of the webpage.

Uploading Files (Video length 2:41)

For a hands-on challenge, navigate to Google Drive - Uploading and Syncing Files. Find the challenge at end of the webpage.

Editing Microsoft Documents (Word, Sheets, PowerPoint) (Video length 1:49)

This video will show how you can edit Microsoft documents right in Google Drive. Not need to convert to Google Docs or Sheets or PowerPoint.

Managing Files (Video length 3:49)

For a hands-on challenge, navigate to Google Drive - Managing your files. Find the challenge at end of the webpage.

Sharing and collaborating (Video length 3:13)

For a hands-on challenge, navigate to Google Drive - Sharing and Collaborating. Find the challenge at end of the webpage.


"Shared with me" section of Google Drive.

Priority Workspaces (Video length 4:56)

Downloading and Printing

For a hands-on challenge, navigate to Google Drive - Downloading and printing files from Google Drive. Find the challenge at end of the webpage.