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Convert and Submit Assignments from Google Drive

Modified on: Mon, Apr 21, 2025 at 3:26 PM
Intended Audience: Students

About

Some Michigan Virtual courses do not accept Google file formats (such as Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides). To meet submission requirements, students may need to convert files into Microsoft Office formats (such as .docx for Word). This guide explains how students can convert and submit assignments from Google Drive, especially when using a Chromebook.

IMPORTANT: Files must be submitted in Microsoft format unless otherwise stated in the assignment instructions. Submitting unconverted Google files may result in assignments being unreadable or ungraded. If students are unsure which format to use, consult the course syllabus or contact the assigned instructor.

Why File Conversion Is Necessary

  • Certain instructors and grading systems only support Microsoft file types (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Submitting a file in the correct format ensures that instructors can view, grade, and provide feedback on assignments without compatibility issues.

Instruction

Download Microsoft Word (.docx) Files on a Chromebook

If a course provides a download link for a Microsoft Word file and a blank screen appears when using a Chromebook, follow these steps:

  1. Perform a two-finger click (right-click) on the download link.
  2. Select “Save link as” and save the file locally.
  3. Open the Files app and drag the file into Google Drive.
  4. Open the file within Google Drive to begin editing.

Convert Files from Google to Microsoft Office Format

Option 1. Convert a Single File
  1. Open the file (Google Doc, Sheet, or Slide) in its Google editor.
  2. Click File in the menu bar.
  3. Hover over Download and choose the appropriate Microsoft format:
    1. Google Docs → Microsoft Word (.docx)
    2. Google Sheets → Microsoft Excel (.xlsx)
    3. Google Slides → Microsoft PowerPoint (.pptx)
  4. The file will automatically download to the Chromebook.
  5. Attach the downloaded file to the assignment in the required submission area.

Screen capture of a Google Doc with the file menu expanded and Download as selected. An arrow points to the Microsoft Word option.

Option 2: Convert Multiple Files
  1. Sign in to the student's Google Drive at drive.google.com.
  2. Use Shift+Click or Ctrl+Click to select multiple files.
  3. Right-click on one of the selected files.
  4. Click Download.
  5. Google Drive will compress the files into a .zip folder, which will be downloaded through the browser.
  6. After extraction, the files can be attached for submission in their new Microsoft formats.

Screen capture of an example folder in Google Drive with three different file types selected. A pop-up menu appears when the user right clicks these documents. An arrow points to the Download option in the pop-up menu.


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