The real issue is not whether an iPad can take the place of a laptop; instead, it is whether you will be able to use it without becoming so frustrated that you will exit Google Docs and throw the iPad out the window. Again, the answer is yes; but it does need some work, both in setting up your iPad and how you use it.
The Use of a Keyboard and an Apple Pencil
If you want to use your iPad as a substitute for your laptop, you will want a keyboard. You can guarantee I didn't compose this post using the touchscreen on my iPad, so please take my opinion with a grain of salt. Despite this, practically everyone is required to send and receive emails, instant chats, and postings on various social media platforms daily. Buying a keyboard is a necessary step. If you have a more modern iPad Pro or iPad Air, the Apple Magic keyboard is the replacement option for a keyboard accessory, although it is not required. Logitech's Combo Touch is paired with my iPad Pro, one of the earlier models. IPad keyboards may also be found manufactured by Brydge and Zagg.
Touch and Keyboard Shortcuts
The touchscreen on the iPad supports the common shortcuts on smartphones, such as pinching to zoom, but it also allows more complex shortcuts that are less evident. Although they are the most necessary to master, the shortcuts for multitasking are not easy to understand. It took me days to figure out how to use the Slide over feature, which allows you to watch one program in a tiny window while another app is significant. I propose bookmarking Apple's iPad multitasking help page. Make sure to build up your muscle memory by referring to it as often as is necessary.
You should also get familiar with the shortcuts for the keyboard. Users who are used to macOS won't have any problems with this aspect since most shortcuts are maintained, but Windows users who make a move may feel disoriented. The shortcut Command-Spacebar is my favorite since it not only opens search but is often the fastest method to start an application or navigate between apps. The shortcut Command-Option-D, which allows you to open the dock, is another helpful one. This helps launch into Slide Over or Split View since you can do both by dragging an app up from the dock. These views can be accessed by dragging an app up from the dock.
Management of Files
IOS 11 introduced support for files on the iPad, and the feature has continued to mature. It is a necessary software to learn, but due to the iPad's operating system shortcuts and the fact that it operates differently from a laptop, it may be unclear for new users. On Windows and macOS laptops, the Files program does not display disc folders like the Explorer and Finder applications do. Instead, it organizes all of your data into a few large containers called Locations. On My iPad, iCloud Drive, and the Recently Deleted locations will all be standard on iPads. Local storage is referred to as "On My iPad."
On the other hand, using the context menu to relocate and alter files is often a lot faster and simpler. You may utilize the shortcuts at the bottom of the Files app if you want to transfer multiple files at once. To do so, touch Pick in the top right-hand corner of the app, select the files you wish to alter, and then use the shortcuts. This is the most effective method for transferring, copying, or deleting files.
Ditch Google
IPad users who rely too much on Google might run into some difficulties. The Google Docs and Google Sheets applications have a well-deserved reputation for being unreliable. You may improve the functionality of Google's subpar mobile applications by accessing Docs, Sheets, and other Google services using Safari, just as you would on a desktop or notebook computer. However, this may create performance difficulties for iPads with a lower processing capacity. If you're working offline or your Internet connection is intermittent, it won't benefit you either.
What do you use if you leave Google from laptop? An apparent option, but one that is sometimes overlooked, is Apple's native applications. Mail, Pages, and Numbers are all excellent applications for individual usage. Because the applications share an interface with other essential programs, such as the Files app, they load quickly and have a more natural feel when used on the iPad.
