Note-taking with Google Keep is a great way to organize your thoughts. There are so many thoughts that run through our minds throughout the day.

While Google Keep isn't nearly as feature-rich as some other note-taking apps, it has that sticky note feel that makes people like it. But there is a lot more to it.

To-Do With Google Keep

Aside from its note-taking functions, Google Keep is a great app for to-do lists, too. If you want to rearrange your priorities to tackle your to-do list, you can drag-and-drop your notes. You can also assign a separate task to each note.

However, here are some features that can enhance your Google Keep to-do list experience:

1. Pin Note

Pin your notes in Google Keep

Pinning notes within Google Keep is one way to manage to-dos. Consider, for example, that you would like to tackle a few notes first. Choosing the Pin icon puts them at the top of your list at all times.

Pin your notes in Google Keep

Throughout your day, you can keep in mind who or what matters most. Using this method can help you prioritize your list.

Related: Uncomplicated To-Do Apps to Focus on Tasks and Get Things Done

2. Checklist

Within Google Keep, there are several ways you can keep your to-do list. Making a checklist is an easy way to start. You can immediately begin adding items to this list, which you can then call a To-Do List.

You can add items to a checklist easily and quickly:

  1. Click on the Tick mark at the side of the Note bar.
    Make a checklist in Google Keep
  2. Start by typing out the Title, and then add the items.
    Make a checklist in Google Keep
  3. Click Close, and your list will appear with your notes.
    Make a checklist on Google Keep

In addition, Google Keep's checklist allows you to access it and check things off without opening up the note. It's possible to check things off the to-do list in the standard view. The checklist list is very flexible and functional, regardless of whether you are using the desktop or mobile version.

3. Location-Based Reminders

You probably know how to add a reminder to a Google Keep note. The most common type of reminder we know is the date-based reminder. Click on the reminder icon, and you can pick later today or tomorrow. In addition to picking a specific date and time, you can also choose a location. To add a location-based reminder:

  1. Click on the Reminder icon at the bottom of a note.
    Location-based reminders in Google Keep.
  2. Choose the Select Place option.
    Location-based reminders in Google Keep.
  3. A new dialogue box appears. Type in the location at the search bar and select the location.
    Location-based reminders in Google Keep.
  4. Click on the Save button.

Using this, you can specify a specific location for the reminder. A location-based alert will be triggered when you approach this address. Your phone will notify you.

When you drive by, if you're within a few blocks, if you happen to go into a nearby store, or if you happen to walk by, you're going to get a message. So, a location-based reminder can be a great way to remind yourself of things based on locations.

4. Collaboration

You can share the notes you create with others using Google Keep. If your office organizes a conference with your colleagues and there are many things you will need to purchase, how do you handle it?

There are several items. Some items may be available at office supply stores—other things, at other locations. Therefore, you need to buy items from different places. In this case, you can add a collaborator to the note.

By sharing a note, all your colleagues can access it. Once you purchase these items, you can cross them off the list. They will see these changes happen immediately. This way, all of you will know that they do not have to worry about these items. To share your notes with others:

  1. Click on the Share option at the bottom of a note.
    Collaborate with others in Google Keep.
  2. Type out the email or name of the person you want to add.
    Collaborate with others in Google Keep.
  3. Click on the Save button.

With this feature, you can create a shopping list together with your partner too. Who knows who may walk into the grocery store next? So both of you have access to add items to the grocery list, and you can track what you buy as you go.

Related: To-Do List Apps That Sync Across All Your Devices

5. Annotations

Google Keep allows you to annotate pictures that are within your note. Your notes may contain an image that you shared with others. You might be interested in reviewing the specific image.

By clicking the image, you get a full-size version. But there's also a button that lets you annotate the picture.

  1. Click on the image.
    Annotate images in Google Keep.
  2. Select the pen-like Annotate option.
    Annotate images in Google Keep.
  3. The Annotate window appears. You can now draw and highlight things over your picture.
    Annotate images in Google Keep.

You can also always go back and remove these annotations. Likewise, you can click outside the image if you like them. Those annotations are now attached to the image.

Is Google Keep Productive?

With all the easy-to-use features, it saves a lot of time. Google Keep is perfect for people who use to-do lists for light and quick tasks.

Google Keep does not have the depth of features, but it is surely a productive application. People who want their apps to have many features can use a different platform. There are a lot of them out there.