Do we really need another document-processing app when we already have powerful tools like Microsoft Word and Google Docs? In addition, many productivity systems such as Notion, Coda, ClickUp, Monday, and Asana come with built-in document-editing features.
The question remains: why should anyone bother with Canva Docs? Let’s find out what Canva Docs is, what sets it apart from the rest, and why it’s worth a try.
What is Canva Docs?
For starters, Canva is a graphic design platform popular among freelancers and small businesses who use it to create digital assets to grow their brands. Some of these assets include creating a digital planner, designing email signatures, and business cards.
Recently, Canva has been expanding into the workspace, adding features such as presentations, video editing, and whiteboards. Document processing is the newest feature of the block.
Canva Docs is a visual-first document creator that combines key document processing features with interactive visual elements such as images, graphics, charts, and videos.
Top 10 Features of Canva Docs
At first glance, Canva Docs appears very simple. However, you’ll be surprised to find some powerful features beneath its overly simplistic interface. Let’s take a deep dive and explore the features available inside Canva Docs.
1. Doc Template
In true Canva style, Canva Docs comes with templates to help you get started.
2. Write Spell
Magic Write is the AI writing assistant from Canva Docs that helps you turn your idea into a first draft in seconds.
3. Tables and Charts
You can easily add tables and charts to your document.
At first, Canva’s tables look very basic, however, you can easily customize them to suit your tastes. To add charts to your document, you have the option of manually entering data into a table or importing data from a CSV file or Google Sheets.
4. Media Library
One unique feature that sets Canva Docs apart from its competitors is the access to high-quality media files.
Similar to Canva’s graphic design interface, you have access to stock photos, videos, GIFs, and graphic elements right inside Canva docs.
5. Design
You can create and add new designs to your Canva docs.
This feature opens a pop-up design space where you can create new designs from scratch or choose from a library of pre-made templates. These designs are more like banners because of their fixed rectangular format.
6. Embed
The embed feature allows you to embed website links, YouTube videos, social media posts, etc. directly inside Canva docs.
Additionally, you can embed any of your previous Canva projects (graphic design, slide deck, video, whiteboard) via the embed link or simply by dragging and dropping from the Project tab in the left menu.
7. Magic Commands
All of the features mentioned above that pertain to creating and editing your Dock can be accessed via magic commands in the command box. All you have to do is click on the plus icon on the doc or press the slash key (/) on your keyboard.
You can choose to type the command you want, use your arrow keys to scroll through the options, and press Enter. This means you can easily add any type of content to Canva docs without lifting a finger from your keyboard.
8. Cooperation
You can invite specific people to collaborate on a document or share a public link to your document.
For each option, you can set permissions to view, comment, or edit. Additionally, there is a timer feature in the lower left corner to keep track of time spent during collaborative sessions. You can also use it if you are working alone and want to track the time you spend working on a document.