The Distracting Sidebar
Google Docs includes a built-in research assistant called the “Explore” tool. Located as a small star-shaped icon in the bottom-right corner of the window (and sometimes appearing as a persistent side panel), this feature uses machine learning to read the contents of your document and automatically suggest related web searches, images, and formatting tips. While potentially useful for students writing research papers, it is highly distracting for professional writers, editors, or anyone drafting a sensitive internal document who does not want Google’s algorithms constantly parsing their text to offer unsolicited web links.
Hiding the Assistant
To eliminate these algorithmic interruptions and completely disable the Explore tool panel from your workspace, you must simply dismiss the interface, as Google does not allow you to fundamentally remove the feature from the platform.
If the Explore panel is currently open on the right side of your screen, look to the very top right corner of that specific panel. You will see a small “X” icon. Click the X to close the sidebar. If you are bothered by the persistent star-shaped icon hovering in the bottom right corner of your document window, you cannot permanently delete it. However, you can ensure it never opens automatically. Avoid using the keyboard shortcut `Ctrl+Alt+Shift+I` (or `Cmd+Option+Shift+I` on Mac), as this instantly triggers the sidebar. By keeping the panel closed and avoiding the shortcut, the Explore tool remains dormant, preventing it from actively scanning your text and cluttering your screen with suggestions.