How to Use Google Drive: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Google Drive is one of the most popular cloud storage services, offering free online space to store files, share documents, and access data from any device. Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual smartphone user, Google Drive helps you keep your important files safe and available anytime, anywhere.

In this blog, we’ll explain what Google Drive is, how to use it, and provide step-by-step instructions for uploading, sharing, backing up, and organizing your files.

What Is Google Drive?

Google Drive is a cloud storage platform by Google that lets you:

• Store files online
• Backup photos, videos, and documents
• Access files from any device
• Share files with others
• Work collaboratively in real-time

Every Google account gets 15 GB of free storage shared across Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.

Why Should You Use Google Drive?

Here are the biggest advantages:

• ✔ Your files are safe even if your phone/computer gets damaged
• ✔ Access your documents from anywhere
• ✔ Easy file sharing
• ✔ Works with Google Docs, Sheets, Slides
• ✔ Automatic backup for phone files
• ✔ Free cloud space

How to Use Google Drive on Android / iPhone

Using Google Drive is extremely simple. Follow the steps below.

Install and Open Google Drive

For Android

Most Android phones already have Google Drive installed.
If not, download from Play Store.

For iPhone

Go to App Store → Search “Google Drive” → Install.

Log in using your Google account.

How to Upload Files to Google Drive

Steps:

1. Open Google Drive
2. Tap the + (plus) button
3. Select Upload
4. Choose files (photos, videos, documents, etc.)
5. Upload starts automatically

Your files are now safely stored in the cloud.

How to Create Folders in Google Drive

Folders help keep your Drive organized.

To create a folder:

1. Tap +
2. Select Folder
3. Enter a name
4. Tap Create

You can move files into folders by long-pressing and selecting Move to.

How to Share Files from Google Drive

Google Drive makes file sharing extremely easy.

Steps:

1. Open the file you want to share
2. Tap three dots (⋮)
3. Select Share
4. Enter email address of the person
5. Choose permission:
   • Viewer
   • Commenter
   • Editor
6. Tap Send

You can also create a Shareable Link.

How to Backup Photos & Videos Automatically

Google Drive can automatically save your phone photos using Google Photos.

Steps:

1. Install Google Photos
2. Open app → tap Profile
3. Select Photos settings
4. Tap Backup
5. Turn Backup On

Now your photos and videos will automatically upload to the cloud.

How to Use Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides

Google Drive is not just storage — it includes online office apps.

• Google Docs → Word documents
• Google Sheets → Excel-style spreadsheets
• Google Slides → PowerPoint presentations

To create one:

1. Open Drive
2. Tap + → Google Docs / Sheets / Slides
3. Start editing
4. Your document auto-saves

How to Download Files from Google Drive

Steps:

1. Open the file
2. Tap three dots (⋮)
3. Select Download

The file is saved to your device.

Google Drive Storage Plans

Google offers paid storage through Google One:

• 100 GB
• 200 GB
• 2 TB
• 5 TB or more

Useful for photographers, students, and professionals who need extra space.

Tips to Use Google Drive Like a Pro

✔ Use folders to keep things organized
✔ Delete unwanted files to save space
✔ Use offline mode to access files without internet
✔ Enable two-factor authentication for security
✔ Convert PDF documents to text using Google Docs

Final Words

Google Drive is one of the easiest and safest ways to store files online. Whether you want to back up photos, share documents, or work on projects with others, Google Drive offers powerful tools for everyone. By following the steps in this guide, you can start using Google Drive confidently and efficiently.