Is there a way to modify versions of my documents without generating distinct files?

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Yes, there are several ways to modify versions of your documents without generating distinct files:

1. Track Changes: Most word processors have a "Track Changes" feature that allows you to make changes to a document without actually modifying the original text. This can be useful when collaborating with other people on a document, as it allows each person to make changes and leave comments that can be reviewed and approved by others.

2. Version control software: Version control software allows you to make changes to a document while keeping track of all the changes made. This is commonly used by software developers, but can also be useful for document collaboration. Tools like Git, SVN or Microsoft's One-note are widely used.

3. Cloud-Based Document Editors: Many cloud-based document editors such as Google Docs allow you to make changes to a document in real-time without having to create separate versions. All changes made are automatically saved and can be tracked using the revision history tool.

4. Save As: If you want to keep an original version of your document unchanged but still want to make changes, you can use the "Save As" function to create a new version of the document. This way you can make changes to the new version, while still keeping the original document intact.