Establishing an efficient study routine often involves the use of flashcards. However, in our efforts to be eco-friendly and cost-effective, we might also want to utilize both sides of a paper. Google Docs, although primarily for documents, can help us achieve this with our flashcards through a series of simple steps.
Before we dive into the process, ensure that you have Google Docs installed on your device. If not, you can download it from the Google Workspace website. Once you have, you're ready to create your double-sided flashcards. Let's explore how to do this.
Preparing Your Flashcards in Google Docs
Creating your flashcards involves a few initial steps before you can print them double-sided. After launching Google Docs, create a new document and start typing your flashcard content. Each line of text will serve as a card.
To maintain a well-organized, readable format, consider using bullet points or numbering system for your flashcards. This allows you to easily differentiate between different topics or sets of information.
Creating Two-Column Format
In Google Docs, creating a two-column format is essential for double-sided printing. This ensures that the information intended for the back of the card appears on the other side of the paper. To do this, click on "Format" in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
Select "Columns" and then "Two columns" from the drop-down menu. Alternatively, you can click on the '፧' button in the toolbar and choose 'Two columns' from the options that appear. Your text should now flow into two columns, side by side.
Mirroring Front and Back of Flashcards
To ensure the content intended for the back of your flashcard actually ends up there, you will need to create a mirror of your document. Here's how it works:
Click on "View" in the menu bar at the top of your screen, then select "Print Layout". This lets you view your document as it will appear when printed. Next, ensure you have a letter-sized paper selected for your printer's settings.
Printing Your Double-Sided Flashcards
Now that your Google Docs double-sided flashcards are ready, it's time to print them. Click on "File" at the top of the screen, then select "Print". Make sure the settings are correct, then choose your preferred printer from the list provided.
What remains crucial is to select "Print on both sides" from the options under the "Layout" section. You can also choose to print in booklet form if necessary. Finally, click on "Print" and wait for your double-sided flashcards to show up in your printer's output tray.
Manually Binding Your Flashcards
While Google Docs allows us to create and print double-sided flashcards, it doesn't provide a method for Punched and bound flashcards. For this, you will have to use a puncher and ring binders manually. Carefully punch holes at the top of your flashcards and bind them together for easy reference and flipping during study.
Remember, the beauty of double-sided flashcards lies in their ability to help you consolidate information while being eco-friendly. So, stick to correct printing and binding instructions to get the best results.