Paperpile uses a service called Google Apps Script to format citations within Google Docs documents. Most problems with Apps Script are easily resolved, but like any cloud-based service, Apps Script can experience occasional outages and is not immune to bugs. Here are some tips for what to do when something goes wrong.
The Paperpile Google Docs plug-in requires no special installation. If you have installed the Chrome extension and are signed into Paperpile, the plug-in will load automatically when you open a Google Doc. To verify this, look for the Paperpile menu on the top ribbon and the P button on the right of the toolbar.
If the plugin is not loading: Make sure you are signed into Paperpile by going to app.paperpile.com, then reload the Google Docs tab. If the issue persists, try reloading the Chrome extension (check out our dedicated Chrome extension troubleshooting guide for more details) or restart the browser.
You can disable the Google Docs plugin at any time from your library settings. Click the profile menu on the top right > Settings > Browser extension and uncheck the Google Docs integration option.
The first time you format a Google Docs document, the Paperpile plugin will require authorization. This allows the Paperpile plugin to scan and modify your document with the same permissions as you do. Note that Paperpile will only process your document when explicitly triggered to do so.
When you click Authorize Paperpile, a window will open indicating that the script requires authorization.
Click Review Permissions and a second window will appear, listing the permissions to be granted to the Paperpile plugin. You can read more details about the Google account permissions we require on this dedicated page.
