The strikethrough feature in Google Docs is a useful formatting tool that allows you to cross out text. When text is struck through, a horizontal line runs through the center of the text. This is an easy way to indicate revisions, deletions, completed tasks, or text that is outdated.
When to Use Strikethrough
Here are some of the main reasons you may want to use strikethrough in Google Docs:
- Indicate text that should be deleted: Rather than deleting text completely, you can strike it out to show it should be removed while still keeping it visible. This allows collaborators to see what was changed.
- Mark completed tasks: If you have a task list or checklist in your document, strike through items when they are complete. This provides a quick visual indicator of what still needs to be done.
- Show revisions: Strikethrough is useful for showing where you have revised text in a document. The original text remains visible but is crossed out.
- Highlight outdated information: If you have text that is no longer current or accurate, use strikethrough to indicate it is outdated and should likely be removed.
- Add humor or make a point: A strikethrough can be used artistically to add humor or emphasis to text. For example, you could strike out a word and replace it with a different one.
How to Strikethrough Text in Google Docs
Applying strikethrough formatting in Google Docs is simple. There are two main ways to do it:
Use the Keyboard Shortcut
- Highlight the text you want to strikethrough.
- Press these keys:
- Windows: Ctrl + Alt + 5
- Mac: ⌘ + Shift + X
Use the Format Menu
- Highlight the text.
- Click Format > Text.
- Select Strikethrough.
The text will now have a horizontal line running through the center.
Tips for Using Strikethrough Effectively
- Use sparingly. Don’t overuse strikethroughs as it can make text difficult to read.
- Be consistent. Stick with one method of showing revisions/deletions.
- Double check when finished. Make sure any text that is struck out should actually be removed.
- Use the keyboard shortcut to save time. This avoids having to navigate menus.
Removing a Strikethrough
Need to remove a strikethrough? Just reapply the same steps:
- Keyboard shortcut: Highlight text and press the shortcut keys again
- Menu: Highlight text, go to Format > Text > Strikethrough
The line will disappear and the text will return to normal formatting.
Strikethrough on Mobile Devices
The Google Docs mobile app makes it easy to do strikethrough on an Android phone or iPhone.
On Android:
- Tap and hold text to select it.
- Tap the “A” icon.
- Choose the strikethrough “S” option.
On iPhone:
- Tap and hold text to select it.
- Tap the BIU button.
- Choose the strikethrough “S” option.
This will apply or remove a strikethrough from text.
Why You Should Use Strikethrough
Strikethrough is a valuable formatting tool that has many uses:
- Shows edits and revisions clearly
- Keeps tracked changes organized
- Quickly indicates completed tasks
- Modern alternative to hand-marking paper documents
Because it stands out visually, a strikethrough draws attention to text, making it noticed. This can help emphasize important changes while keeping original text visible.
So don’t be afraid to use strikethrough in Google Docs whenever needed. It’s a simple way to improve clarity and enhance communication!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the easiest way to strikethrough text?
The fastest method is using the keyboard shortcuts Ctrl + Alt + 5 (Windows) or ⌘ + Shift + X (Mac). This avoids having to highlight text and select formatting menus.
Can I strikethrough an entire paragraph?
Yes, you can apply a strikethrough to a few words, a sentence, or multiple paragraphs. Simply highlight all the text you want to strike out before applying the formatting.
Is there a limit to how much text I can strikethrough?
No, you can technically strike out an unlimited amount of text in a Google Doc. However, extensive use of strikethroughs can make a document harder to read and understand. Use judiciously.
What happens if I paste text that’s already struck out from another document?
The strikethrough formatting will remain when pasting into Google Docs. You won’t need to reapply it manually.
Can I use strikethrough in Google Slides or Sheets?
At this time, strikethrough is only available as a text formatting option in Google Docs, not Slides or Sheets. But it can be handy in documents!
