How to Copy and Paste on Chromebook – A Complete Guide

Chromebooks are designed for simplicity and efficiency, but new users might struggle with basic functions like copying and pasting. Whether you’re using keyboard shortcuts, the trackpad, or Chrome extensions, this guide will help you master the process.

Copy and Paste on Chromebook Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are the fastest way to copy and paste on a Chromebook. If you’re familiar with Windows shortcuts, you’ll find them quite similar:

Steps:

1. Select the text: Click and drag your cursor over the text or hold the Shift key while using the arrow keys.
2. Copy the text: Press Ctrl + C to copy the selected text.
3. Paste the text: Click where you want to insert the text and press Ctrl + V.

To paste without formatting, use Ctrl + Shift + V instead. This removes any unwanted styles or HTML formatting.

How to Copy and Paste on Chromebook Without a Mouse

Since Chromebooks have a different trackpad design, right-clicking is not as intuitive as on other laptops. Here’s how to copy and paste without a mouse:

Steps:

1. Right-click with the trackpad: Tap two fingers on the trackpad or hold the Alt key and tap the touchpad.
2. Select Copy or Paste: After highlighting the text, select Copy from the menu. To paste, go to the desired location and select Paste.

This method also works for copying images by selecting Copy Image from the right-click menu.

How to Copy and Paste Images and Videos on Chromebook

Copying images and videos follows a similar process but includes a few extra options.

Steps for Copying Images:

1. Right-click (tap two fingers on the trackpad or press Alt + tap) on the image.
2. Select Copy image or Copy image address (for URL use).
3. Go to your desired location and press Ctrl + V to paste.

Steps for Copying Video Links:

1. Right-click the video and choose Copy video URL, Copy video URL at current time, or Copy embed code (for embedding on websites).
2. Paste the link using Ctrl + V where needed.

How to Copy an Entire Webpage on Chromebook

If you want to copy all content from a webpage, follow these steps:

Steps:

1. Click anywhere on the page (avoid images).
2. Press Ctrl + A to highlight all content.
3. Press Ctrl + C to copy everything selected.
4. Click where you want to paste the content and press Ctrl + V.

For a full-page screenshot instead, use Ctrl + Show Windows (F5 key).

Best Copy and Paste Extensions for Chromebook

Some websites block copy-paste functions, and native tools might not always work. Chrome extensions can help:

Recommended Extensions:

• MultiCopy Clipboard – Allows multiple copied texts at once and stores them in Chrome storage.
• Office – Enable Copy and Paste – Enhances copy-paste functionality in Microsoft Office web apps.
• ADP Copy & Paste – Helps with copying data from ADP web formats.
• Copy Paste Pro – Bypasses restrictions on sites that block copy-paste.
• Copy as Plain Text – Copies text without formatting issues.

Final Thoughts

Mastering copy and paste on a Chromebook can save you time and effort. Whether you use keyboard shortcuts, trackpad gestures, or browser extensions, these methods ensure a smooth workflow. Try them out and enhance your Chromebook experience today!