How to Check Version History in Google Docs

This tool is especially useful during the editing process when multiple rounds of edits, comments, and tracked changes are involved.

Why Version History Matters

Version history helps you:

• Track when changes were made
  
  
• See who made specific edits
  
  
• Recover text that was deleted or overwritten
  
  
• Confirm you’re working in the most current version of the document
  
  

It’s a built-in safety net that protects your work.

How to Open Version History

There are two easy ways to access version history:

Option 1: From the menu

1. Open your Google Doc
   
   
2. Click File
   
   
3. Select Version history
   
   
4. Click See version history
   
   

Option 2: Keyboard shortcut

• Windows: Ctrl + Alt + Shift + H
  
  
• Mac: Cmd + Option + Shift + H
  
  

How to Read Version History

Once version history is open:

• Earlier versions appear in a panel on the right side of the screen
  
  
• Each version shows a date, time, and editor name
  
  
• Click a version to preview the document at that point in time
  
  

You can scroll through the document to see exactly what was different in that version.

Important Note

Restoring a previous version may remove recent comments or tracked changes. This is why we recommend reviewing version history carefully and reaching out to your editor if you’re uncertain.

How to Restore a Previous Version

If you need to roll back to an earlier version:

1. Click the version you want to restore
   
   
2. Review it carefully
   
   
3. Click Restore this version at the top of the screen
   
   

Google Docs will not delete newer versions—you can always return to them later.

Best Practices During Editing

• Always confirm you’re working in the most recent version before making changes
  
  
• Avoid restoring versions unless you are confident it’s necessary
  
  
• If you’re unsure, check with your editor before restoring an earlier version
  
  
• Use version history instead of creating copies or duplicate files