How to Edit Word Docs on a Chromebook

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It is true that you cannot install Microsoft Office, on a Chromebook. However, that doesn't mean you can't open, edit and share Word documents. In fact, there are multiple routes you can take. You just need to know how, and that's where our step-by-step instructions can come in handy. 

1. Click on the download button for an email attachment of a Microsoft Word doc, to get started. 

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2. Open the downloaded file 

3. Edit all you want in the QuickOffice window that appears. This file will be saved in your Chromebook's local files drive. You can email the file out as an attachment from this. But, perhaps you'd like to save the file in the cloud. Click the three dots on the upper right corner of the window.

4. Select Save As.

5. Click OK. Select Google Docs if it's not already selected.

6. You can open your file in Google Docs.

7. Edit what you need to in Google Docs. You can also create documents in Google Docs that can later be transformed into Word documents. Whatever lives on Google Docs can be accessed from any Web-connected PC. 

8. Click File, select Download As and select Microsoft Word when you're done editing. This will save the edited document in its original format. You can then share that attachment via email. But, perhaps you don't want to mess with converting a document and re-converting it. 

Edit Office Docs Using OneDrive

1. Navigate to this page, where you Click Add to Chrome to add OneDrive, Microsoft's cloud storage service, which is similar to Google Docs. It does require you have a Microsoft Account to use, however.

2. Sign in or sign up for an account. 

3. Click Upload from the top bar. 

4. Click Files.

5. Open your downloaded Doc file from the files app.

6. Select the file you've uploaded.

7. Click Share to send an article after editing in Chrome.

8. Fill out your contact's info to send your finished document!

9. You can also create new Word documents using the SkyDrive app. 

Chromebook Tips

Anna Attkisson
Anna Attkisson
Managing Editor
A lover of lists and deadlines, Anna Attkisson heads up features and special projects for Laptopmag.com, in addition to covering social networking and accessories. She joined the LAPTOP staff in 2007, after working at Time Inc. Content Solutions where she created custom publications for companies from American Express to National Parks Foundation.