Voice commands are very convenient to use for completing ordinary tasks with Google Assistant. Like anything else, knowing what commands to use, how to use them, and making sure that your device is configured properly are essential.
Understanding what Google Assistant commands work can make your life much easier, especially for students, professionals or families. In this article we’ve listed some common commands and given you a simple way to know which to use.
1. Useful Commands
The most useful commands are ones that make everyday tasks easier. Below are some commands to try on your compatible device:
| Action | Command |
| What’s the weather? | Hey Google, what’s the weather? |
| Set Alarm | Hey Google, set an alarm for 7am. |
| Set Timer | Hey Google, set a timer for 15 minutes. |
| What time is it? | Hey Google, what time is it? |
| What is 245 x 8? | Hey Google, what is 245 x 8? |
| Where are the nearest…? | Hey Google, where are the nearest coffee shops? |
| How do I get there? | Hey Google, how do I get there? |
| What’s on my calendar? | Hey Google, what’s on my calendar? |
Depending on your device, language, account settings and services, some of these may not work. Some will require you to give permission for location, calendar etc.
A good tip is to start with simple commands that will give you clear results (Timer, Weather). This can help you to understand how your device works with natural language.
Try to make the command as specific as possible. Instead of “Remind me…”, include the detail “Remind me to review my sales report tomorrow at 9AM”.
2. Messaging & Productivity Commands
Using voice commands can help to make messaging, time management and reminders easier. Depending on your device and apps you may have different options.
Some useful commands are:
- Send a message – Hey Google, send Alex a text saying I’ll be there in 10 mins.
- Call someone – Hey Google, call my Mum.
- Remind me – Hey Google, remind me to send my report at 4PM.
- What are my upcoming events? – Hey Google, what meetings do I have tomorrow?
- Schedule an Event – Hey Google, schedule a meeting for Friday at 2PM.
- Search – Hey Google, search for beginner photography tips.
- Shopping List – Hey Google, add Milk to my shopping list.
These will work best if you’re using clear names, times and locations. You may want to check the messages/calendar to ensure they’re accurate.
Voice Productivity Framework
A great way to help you with your voice commands is using the ACT framework.
- Action – What action do you want to take? (Message, Reminder).
- Context – Give specific details (Who, When, Where).
- Test – Check that it has done what you wanted. Check the app or listen to the response.
Instead of saying “Remind me…” try to be as specific as possible. “Remind me to review my sales report tomorrow at 9AM”. Then check the reminder has been created.
This isn’t an official Google method but is a great way to organise your commands.
3. Smart Home & Media Commands
Using smart home devices can make voice commands very useful. Depending on what you have, you could control lights, heating, TV, speakers and many more.
Smart Home Commands
- Turn Off Lights – Hey Google, turn off the lights in my bedroom.
- Change Heating – Hey Google, set the heating to 22 degrees.
- Open Camera – Hey Google, open camera on front door.
- Turn On Lights – Hey Google, turn on the lights in my living room.
- Lock Door – Hey Google, lock front door.
Your device will need to be compatible, set up correctly and have the correct permissions. Some security related commands may not be available or require extra steps.
Media Commands
- Play relaxing music – Hey Google, play relaxing music.
- Pause Music – Hey Google, pause music.
- Increase Volume – Hey Google, increase volume.
- Next Song – Hey Google, play next song.
Depending on your streaming service, subscription and region, you may have different commands. Some commands may not be available.
Generally, commands like pausing music will require less permissions than controlling a smart lock or camera. It’s a good idea to start with simple commands when setting up your smart home. Ensure everything is working correctly before turning on more sensitive commands.
You may also want to check your device permissions. Don’t let anyone in your house see your security cameras.
4. Extra Commands for Travel, Learning & Accessibility
Voice assistants can help you find information whilst you’re travelling, learning or using your device.
- Translate – Hey Google, how do you say thank you in Spanish?
- How long until the airport? – Hey Google, how long until I get to the airport?
- General Knowledge – Hey Google, how do solar panels work?
- Convert Units – Hey Google, how many km is 10 miles?
- Enable TalkBack – Hey Google, enable TalkBack.
Depending on your device and OS, the commands may differ slightly. Talkback is a screen reader for android devices. Not all devices will have voice commands enabled.
Three Tier Command Selection
When deciding whether your command should be a voice command, use the below tiers:
| Tier | Command | Recommendation |
| 1. Information | Weather, Definitions, Calculations. | Check that the information is correct. |
| 2. Personal | Reminders, Messaging & Calendar. | Check that the details are correct. |
| 3. Device | Lights, Cameras & Locks. | Check that your device has the correct permissions and security. |
This is a great way to understand what tier your commands should be. This isn’t a measure of how well the commands work, but just a way to help you.
If you’re making travel plans, financial decisions or anything that requires time sensitive information, double check your answer using a reliable app or source.
5. How to Improve Your Results With Google Assistant
Sometimes even the best commands won’t work if your settings aren’t set up correctly. Try following the below steps to help you figure out why.
- Check your device can be activated – Is your device compatible with voice commands? Are your settings set up?
- Check your language – Is the language of your assistant the same as what you’re asking in?
- Check the app permissions – Does the app have the correct permissions for contacts, calendars, location etc?
- Check your smart home and media are linked.
- Use clear language – Use an imperative verb and include any vital information.
- Check it has been completed.
If your command isn’t working for your light, check that it’s compatible and linked. Ensure it has the correct room name and that your account is linked. This can help you to figure out whether it’s a problem with your command or device.
Google Assistant still varies between devices, languages, regions and software. Some features may not work on your old device due to Google updating their assistant. Check your device documentation for the latest compatibility.
Conclusion
Overall, the most useful commands will be clear, your device settings are set up correctly and you’re checking important commands. Start with simple commands such as Alarms, Timers, Weather & Reminders.
Using the ACT framework and Three Tier Command Selection will help you to make your voice commands as easy as possible. This will help you to make your life easier whilst also ensuring your commands are accurate.
The aim isn’t to learn all the commands but understand how to phrase your command clearly, include the correct information and then check if it’s done what you wanted.
