Clearing formatting in Word is a quick and easy task that can help you tidy up your documents. By using a simple keyboard shortcut, you can remove all formatting from selected text, returning it to plain, unformatted text. This guide will show you how to do this in just a few steps.
How to Clear Formatting in Word Shortcut
Clearing formatting in Word allows you to strip away all bold, italics, underlining, font changes, and other text enhancements. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Select the Text
Highlight the text that you want to clear the formatting from.
Make sure the text you want to change is selected. You can do this by clicking and dragging your mouse over the text, or by using keyboard shortcuts to select the text.
Step 2: Press the Keyboard Shortcut
Press Ctrl + Spacebar on your keyboard.
This keyboard shortcut is the magic combination you need. It will remove all character formatting from the selected text, making it plain and simple.
Step 3: Verify the Change
Check to see that the formatting has been cleared.
Look at your text to ensure that all special formatting has been removed. The text should now match the default style of the document.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your selected text will be stripped of any formatting. It will appear in the default style, making it easier to apply new formatting if needed.
Tips for Clearing Formatting in Word Shortcut
- Use
Ctrl + Ato select all text in the document if you want to clear formatting from everything. - If you want to remove paragraph formatting, use
Ctrl + Qafter selecting the text. - Practice makes perfect. Try the shortcut a few times to get comfortable with it.
- Use the undo button (
Ctrl + Z) if you accidentally clear formatting from the wrong text. - Remember to save your document before making changes, just in case you need to revert back.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I use the shortcut on an empty selection?
Nothing will change. The shortcut only affects selected text.
Will this remove hyperlinks from my text?
No, Ctrl + Spacebar won’t remove hyperlinks. You’ll need to remove those manually.
Can I clear formatting from multiple sections at once?
Yes, you can select multiple sections of text and use the shortcut to clear formatting from all selected areas.
Does this work in all versions of Word?
This shortcut works in most versions of Word, from 2003 to the current version.
Can I customize the keyboard shortcut?
No, the Ctrl + Spacebar shortcut is built into Word and cannot be customized.
Summary of Steps to Clear Formatting in Word Shortcut
- Select the text.
- Press
Ctrl + Spacebar. - Verify the change.
Conclusion
Clearing formatting in Word using a shortcut is a simple but powerful tool to keep in your back pocket. Whether you’re working on a school project, business report, or just tidying up some notes, this trick can save you a lot of time.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly and easily remove unwanted formatting, making your document look clean and professional. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in how your work is presented.
For further reading, consider exploring other Word shortcuts and features that can boost your productivity even more. And remember, practice makes perfect—so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Happy formatting!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.