To cross out a word, select it and apply strikethrough formatting. In Word, click the abc button with a line through it on the Home tab. In Google Docs, press Alt + Shift + 5 (Windows) or Command + Shift + X (Mac). In Excel, press Ctrl + 5. The text stays readable but shows a line through it, which is handy for completed tasks, edits and price changes.
Quick Answer
Select the text, then use the strikethrough button or shortcut for your app (see the table below).
Strikethrough Shortcuts by App
| App | Windows | Mac |
|---|---|---|
| Word | Home > Strikethrough (abc) | Command + Shift + X, or Format > Font |
| Google Docs | Alt + Shift + 5 | Command + Shift + X |
| Excel | Ctrl + 5 | Command + Shift + X |
| Google Sheets | Alt + Shift + 5 | Command + Shift + X |
| Outlook (new message) | Format Text > Strikethrough | Format > Font |
Shortcuts can differ between versions; the menu options always work.
Cross Out Text in Word
- Select the word or words.
- On the Home tab, click Strikethrough (the
abcbutton) in the Font group. - For a double line, press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog and check Double strikethrough.
Cross Out Text in Messages and Chat
| Where | Type |
|---|---|
| Markdown, many chat apps and forums | ~~text~~ |
| Some messaging apps | ~text~ |
| Plain text with no formatting | Use a Unicode combining stroke character with an online tool, or write “(removed)” |
Remove Strikethrough
Select the text and use the same button or shortcut again. To clear all formatting at once in Word, press Ctrl + Spacebar, or see removing all formatting in Word.
Want to mark text instead? Learn how to highlight every match of a word.
For reviews without names, see anonymous comments.
Troubleshooting
- Red lines appear under words instead: That’s spell check, not strikethrough. See removing red lines in Word.
- Lines appear on deleted text automatically: Track Changes is on. Review > Track Changes to turn it off, and accept or reject the changes.
- Shortcut does nothing: A keyboard language or another app may be using it. Use the menu instead.
Related: Strikethrough in Excel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a strikethrough shortcut in Word for Windows?
Not by default. You can add one in File > Options > Customize Ribbon > Keyboard shortcuts: Customize, or add the button to the Quick Access Toolbar.
What’s the difference between strikethrough and Track Changes?
Strikethrough is formatting you apply on purpose. Track Changes marks deletions automatically so others can review them.
Summary
- Select the text.
- Click Strikethrough or use your app’s shortcut.
- Use ~~text~~ in Markdown-style chat apps.
- Apply it again to remove it.
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.