If you need to give a copy of a Google file (docs/sheets/slides) you can easily do so by just changing the ending.
How-To
1. Find the file you want to share.
2. Change the settings to “Anyone with the link can view.” Then, click “copy link.”
3. Paste the link somewhere, but don’t click away yet. First let’s change the ending.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13US-bbdZrOM-MHTGZBm9ikCIugtaTf6sdeOVTxFEXrs/edit?usp=sharing
4. You'll only erase the part in blue above.
5. Change the ending:
To force a copy:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13US-bbdZrOM-MHTGZBm9ikCIugtaTf6sdeOVTxFEXrs/copy
To create a template preview:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13US-bbdZrOM-MHTGZBm9ikCIugtaTf6sdeOVTxFEXrs/template/preview
6. Then share that new link wherever you need to.
Soooo....Why would I use the Template Link?
Pros:
- Users can view the file before they copy it.
- No more random “copy of copy of...” files in your Drive.
- Creators can fix bugs in the master template without changing old forced-copy links.
- Creators keep strict ownership of the primary source file.
Cons:
- Users must click “Use Template” after opening the preview page, which adds an extra step.
- Confused users sometimes look for an “Edit” button and may request access to your master file instead of clicking the template button.
- And why would I use the Force Copy Link?
And why would I use the Force Copy Link?
Pros
- Users get their own editable version instantly without extra steps.
- Zero risk of users accidentally requesting edit access to your master file.
- The copied file belongs to the user right away, letting them organize it immediately.
Cons
- Users must copy the file to their account before they can even see what it looks like.
- Creates unwanted files in teh user’s Drive if they decide they don’t like it.
- If you move or delete the original file, the forced -copy link breaks immediately.
Watch this quick video on how to do this!
Also, here's the freebie I showed in the video!
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