If you’ve undone something by mistake, don’t panic — we show you how to redo quickly in Google Docs using a simple keyboard shortcut 🔁. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu, redoing an action (like retyping deleted text or restoring a format) is effortless and takes just a second. Google Docs, being a cloud-based word processor, offers handy features that ensure you can move forward as easily as you move backward.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to redo an action, the exact keyboard shortcuts for every platform, and what to do if your redo function isn’t working.
⌨️ Google Docs Redo Keyboard Shortcuts
No need to search through menus! Just use these keystrokes to instantly redo your last undone action:
| Operating System | Redo Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Windows | Ctrl + Y or Ctrl + Shift + Z |
| macOS | Cmd + Shift + Z |
| Ubuntu/Linux | Ctrl + Shift + Z |
🧠 Tip: While Ctrl + Y works in Windows, Ctrl + Shift + Z is more universal and also supported in macOS/Linux.
🔄 What Does Redo Do in Google Docs?
The redo command re-applies the last undone action. For example:
- If you undid a formatting change (like bold), redo will restore the formatting.
- If you deleted text and then hit undo, redo will re-delete it.
Basically, it lets you move forward again if you went too far with the undo shortcut (which is Ctrl + Z or Cmd + Z). ⏩
📍 Where to Find the Redo Button
Prefer clicking over shortcuts? Here’s how:
- Look at the top-left toolbar in Google Docs.
- Next to the Undo icon (curved arrow), you’ll see a clockwise arrow — that’s Redo!
- Click it once to repeat the last undone step.
🎯 Pro Tip: Hover over the icon to see the shortcut appear as a tooltip.
🛠️ Troubleshooting: Redo Not Working?
If the redo option is grayed out or doesn’t seem to respond:
- There might be nothing to redo. Google Docs only keeps track of undone actions during the current session.
- Refreshing the page clears redo history. 😬
- Collaborative edits from others might affect your redo availability.
- Try redoing immediately after an undo — don’t wait too long.
If keyboard shortcuts aren’t working, check for:
- Browser extensions conflicting with Docs
- Keyboard language settings (especially on international layouts)
- Sticky keys or accessibility software blocking combos
🧠 Bonus: Undo vs. Redo – Know the Difference
| Function | Shortcut (Windows) | Shortcut (Mac) | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undo | Ctrl + Z | Cmd + Z | Reverts the last action |
| Redo | Ctrl + Y / Ctrl + Shift + Z | Cmd + Shift + Z | Reapplies the last undone action |
It’s like having a time machine ⏳ in your keyboard. Use undo to go back, and redo to go forward again.
🚀 Redo in Google Docs for Mobile Users
On Android or iOS:
- Tap the pencil icon to enter editing mode.
- Tap the three dots menu in the top-right.
- Choose Redo from the menu list.
While not as quick as desktop shortcuts, the mobile interface keeps redo easily accessible for touch users.
💬 FAQs About How to Redo in Google Docs
What’s the fastest way to redo in Google Docs?
Use Ctrl + Y (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + Z (Mac) immediately after undoing an action.
Can I redo multiple steps in Google Docs?
Yes! Press the redo shortcut repeatedly to move forward through the undo history.
Why is the redo option disabled?
It’s likely there’s nothing to redo — Google Docs only keeps track of undo history during your editing session.
Is there a redo shortcut on Chromebooks?
Yes! Use Ctrl + Shift + Z — same as Linux/Ubuntu.
Can I redo after closing the document?
No. Once the doc is closed or refreshed, redo/undo history is reset.
Can I view a history of redone actions?
Not directly, but you can check File > Version history to see saved changes.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Mastering How to Redo in Google Docs
Learning how to redo in Google Docs is a game-changer for productivity 💡. Whether you’re fixing a formatting issue, recovering text, or simply experimenting with edits, knowing how to jump forward using Ctrl + Shift + Z or Cmd + Shift + Z can save time and frustration.
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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