See what’s changed in a file

You can see changes that have been made to a document in Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides.

See earlier versions of a file

Note: In Google Docs, text that was added will be highlighted. Text that was deleted will be shown with a strikethrough.

1. On your computer, open a document, spreadsheet, or presentation.
2. At the top, click File  Version history See version history.
3. In the right panel, click a timestamp to see an earlier version of a file. You can see the people who edited the file, and the changes they made in the color next to their name.
4. Optional: To name a version, click More actions  Name this version.
   • You can add up to 40 named versions per drawing, document, or presentation. 
   • You can add up to 15 named versions per spreadsheet.
5. To see edits in more detail, go to the right panel, choose a version, and click Expand detailed versions .

To return to the current version, go to the top left and click Back .

Restore an earlier version

You can return to and edit earlier versions of a file.

1. On your computer, open a document, spreadsheet, or presentation.
2. At the top, click File  Version history See version history.
3. In the right panel, click the timestamp of an earlier version.
4. At the top, click Restore this version Restore.

Make a copy of an earlier version

You can make a copy and edit earlier versions of a file.

1. On your computer, open a document, spreadsheet, or presentation.
2. At the top, click File  Version history See version history.
3. In the right panel, next to the version you want to copy, click More actions   Make a copy.
4. Type a name and choose where to save it.
   • If you want to share the file with the same people, click Share it with the same people.
5. Click OK.

Unable to see a previous version of your file?

The revisions for your file may occasionally be merged to save storage space.

Note: If you don't have permission to edit a file, you won't be able to see the version history.

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