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To delete a Google Doc, move it to Google Drive Trash: on a computer, choose More > Remove beside the file, or, with the document open, choose File > Move to bin. In the Docs app on Android, tap More > Remove. You can restore a trashed file from Drive Trash within 30 days, unless someone empties Trash sooner.
Delete a Google Doc on a computer
- Open the Google Docs home screen and find the document.
- To delete it from the file list, select More > Remove beside the document. It moves to Google Drive Trash. If the document is already open, choose File > Move to bin. You can also remove the file from Google Drive. Labels may vary slightly by locale or interface updates. Google Docs Editors Help describes these options.
Delete a Google Doc on Android
- Open the Docs app and locate the document.
- Tap More beside the file, then tap Remove. Google says removing a file from Docs, Sheets, or Slides also removes it from the other apps, including Drive. Google Docs Editors Help
Restore a document from Trash
On a computer
- Go to drive.google.com and open Trash.
- Right-click the document and choose Restore. It returns from Trash for use in Drive. Google Drive Help
On Android
- Open the Docs app menu and select Trash.
- Tap More beside the document, then tap Restore. Google Docs Editors Help
Google says files remain in Trash for 30 days, after which they are deleted forever. Emptying Trash manually deletes files sooner. Google Drive Help
What happens to a shared or someone else’s Doc?
You do not own the file
Removing another person’s file takes it out of your own Drive; it does not delete the file for everyone else. If you need it restored or cannot access it, contact the owner. Google Drive Help
You own a shared Doc
If you permanently delete a document you own, collaborators lose access. If they still need the file, transfer ownership to someone else before deleting it. Google Workspace Learning Center
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
The file is in a shared drive
Shared-drive permissions affect recovery. Google Workspace guidance says restoring a file from shared-drive Trash is available for up to 30 days and requires at least Contributor access. A Manager can permanently delete files in that Trash. Google Workspace Learning Center
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If the document is missing or permanently deleted
Check whether it was moved or access changed
- Check Drive Trash and make sure you are signed into the Google Account where you accessed the file.
- Review the Drive activity panel for recent changes.
- For a shared document, ask the owner whether its permissions or parent folder changed. A document that is missing from your view may have been moved or become inaccessible rather than deleted. Google Drive Help
After permanent deletion
Google says users may be able to recover files deleted forever, but its cited recovery guidance does not guarantee success or establish detailed eligibility criteria. Consult Google’s current Drive recovery help promptly; recovery is not assured.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
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