public document permissions matrix
public document access depends on the share mode, the viewer's identity, and whether the author allows comments or edit requests.
quick answer
check the permission mode before telling someone they can view, comment, or edit a shared document.
use this for
- explaining shared-link access
- debugging why a viewer cannot comment
- teaching agents how public docs differ from team docs
steps
- open the document share settings.
- check whether sharing is off, view-only, or commentable.
- check whether the viewer is signed in, anonymous, owner, or teammate.
- use request access when the viewer needs more permission.
- turn sharing off when review is done.
details to know
- public document pages are for review, not seo distribution.
- owners keep more controls than outside viewers.
- commentable public links can allow feedback without adding someone to a team.
limits and edge cases
- public access does not mean edit access.
- anonymous viewers may have limited identity and comment behavior.
- private team sharing and public sharing are different permission systems.
ready to use the product instead of reading about it?
open app