Chrome Extension Tutorial
Objective:
Extensions are enhancements to the functionality of the Google Chrome browser. They add to Google Chrome’s abilities with an icon next to the address bar. These extensions apply to the current website in the browser window and provide a suite of tools to enhance the user experience on the site in Chrome. This tutorial will guide your through the basics of installing, using, and managing Chrome Extensions.
Timeline to Complete:
The time for adding and using Extensions will vary based on the Extension. Individual Extensions can be found and added to the Chrome Browser in a matter of moments. The basics of this tutorial should take about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Additional Chrome Extension resources can found in the learn more section of this document.
Install an Extension
1. Visit the Chrome Web Store. You can also get there by clicking the Chrome Web Store icon in the Chrome Apps Launcher in the bookmark bar. Additionally, a new tab in the Chrome browser should have a link to the Chrome Web Store.
2. You can search for Extensions in the Chrome Web Store or Browse the Categories on the bottom of the left menu on the Chrome Web Store. Take a few moments to browse through the wide range of Chrome Extensions in the Web Store.
3. Scroll over the Extension box for a short description.
4. Click and a new popup window provides more information that can include a more detailed description, a video, images, and reviews.
5. Install an Extension by clicking on the button in the Web Store (Some may have a price tag, but the majority are free.)
6. A dialog appears letting you know about the types of data that the extension will be able to access. Click Add extension to grant the extension access to the data described and install the extension.
7. You’ll see the Extension icon appear to the right of the address bar for most extensions. (Some extensions will not have an icon as they work in the browser without you needing to click on the icon. There are also extensions the will appear in the Omnibox). To start using it, just left click on the icon. All Chrome Extensions can be managed in the Chrome settings menu.
Uninstall an Extension
1. To remove most extensions from Google Chrome right click on the extension icon next to the Chrome and scroll down to remove extension.
2. Some extensions need to be managed / removed in the Extension Manager in Chrome Settings:
Click the Chrome menu on the browser toolbar.
Select More tools.
Select Extensions.
2. Find the extension you want to remove. Click the trash icon next to it.
3. A pop-up window will appear, asking if you want to remove the extension. Click Remove.
Turn off an Extension
1. You can also temporarily turn an extension on or off:
Click the Chrome menu on the browser toolbar.
Select Tools.
Select Extensions.
2. On the Extensions page, uncheck the box next to Enabled for the extension you want to turn off. Check it to turn it on.
You can also manage most extensions by right clicking on the Extension icon in the menu bar. Right click on an Extension icon to check out and test the menu options that pop up:
- Options
- Hide Button
- Manage
- You can also "Remove from Chrome" in this menu.
Managing the Extension bar and Launching Extensions
1. You can reorder the Extensions by clicking and holding on one of the icons and dragging.
2. You can see additional extensions you have installed with the double >> near the top right.
3. You can change the size of the the Omnibox (URL Window) to show more or fewer Extensions by hovering over the edge between the Omnibox and the Extensions. When you will see a double arrow left click and drag the Omnibox left or right.
Learn more
100+ Chrome Apps and Extensions
Google Manage Your Extensions Help
Teacher Tech - 7 Part Series on Chrome for Teachers
Stacey Behmer's 60 Favorite Apps and Extensions
TCEA Chrome Apps and Extensions List
10 Useful Chrome Extensions to Try in 2015