Greetings Computer Users
Let me start by congratulating you on completing your screen reader course. I know what you might be thinking. "I just finished this pretty long course on how to use my screen reader, and now I have to learn something totally new just for Google Workspace applications! GRRRR!!!"
I'm going to try and make it as painless as possible. And in the long run, when it takes less time to navigate through your inbox, or drive, or calendar, you will be happy you took the time to hang out with me here in this module.
The reason that we suggest you finish your screen reader course prior to starting this module is that not all Google applications have keyboard shortcuts. Plus, you will be able to use your robust knowledge of your screen reader as a means of troubleshooting just in case things get a little CRAZY along the way.
The Basics
A Google keyboard shortcut is a keyboard command that only works in a specific Google Workspace application. They work regardless if you use screen access software or not. Everyone has access to them.
Shortcuts are not necessarily the same across applications, because each application is different from one another.
Google also has a nifty keyboard shortcut look-up tool to help you as you learn your commands. But one step at a time.
When Using a Screen Reader...
To use Google keyboard shortcuts you will need to turn off your screen reader's "virtual view":
- Turn off virtual cursor - JAWS
- Turn off browse mode - NVDA
- Turn off quick nav - Voiceover
- Turn off sticky mode - Chromevox
If you need to refresh yourself on how to turn off the virtual cursor, browse mode, , sticky mode , or quick nav , reference back to the appropriate course.
Activity 1
Practice turning on and off virtual cursor, browse mode, quick nav, or sticky mode. You should hear your screen reader say either "on" or "off".
Compare your experience on this page toggling between the two modes. How does navigation differ? What happens when you press 'h for headings? Do the arrows work the same way?
You can return to navigating through this page with the virtual cursor, browse mode, quick nav, or sticky mode on.