How to do a strikethrough in Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Strikethrough in Google Docs is a simple yet effective way to cross out text you no longer need or want to highlight as a mistake without deleting it. In just a few clicks, you can strike through text in your document.

Step by Step Tutorial: Strikethrough in Google Docs

Striking through text in Google Docs is a straightforward process that involves highlighting the text and applying the strikethrough format. Let’s dive into the steps.

Step 1: Highlight the text you want to strikethrough

Click and drag your mouse over the text you want to apply the strikethrough to.

Highlighting the text is the first step because it tells Google Docs exactly which part of the text you want to change. Make sure you only highlight the text you want to strike through, as any highlighted text will undergo the change.

Step 2: Click on the "Format" menu

Navigate to the menu bar at the top of the page and click on "Format."

The "Format" menu is where you’ll find all the text editing tools you need, including the strikethrough option. It’s located between the "Insert" and "Tools" menus.

Step 3: Select "Text" and then "Strikethrough"

In the drop-down menu, hover over "Text" and another menu will appear. Click on "Strikethrough" from the options.

Once you click on "Strikethrough," the highlighted text will immediately have a line through it. This indicates that the strikethrough format has been successfully applied.

After completing these steps, the selected text in your Google Docs document will have a line through it, indicating that it’s been struck through. This can be a useful tool for editing documents, showing changes, or simply drawing attention to specific text.

Tips for Strikethrough in Google Docs

  • To quickly access the strikethrough option, you can use the keyboard shortcut Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or Command + Shift + X on Mac.
  • If you’re collaborating on a document, use strikethrough to suggest edits without permanently altering the text.
  • Strikethrough can be used to create a visual to-do list where completed tasks are marked through.
  • You can combine strikethrough with other formatting options like bold or italic for added emphasis.
  • Remember that you can always undo the strikethrough by repeating the steps and deselecting the option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a keyboard shortcut for strikethrough in Google Docs?

Yes, you can use Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or Command + Shift + X on Mac.

Using keyboard shortcuts can save you time and make your workflow more efficient, especially if you use the strikethrough feature frequently.

Can I strikethrough text on the Google Docs mobile app?

Yes, you can strikethrough text in the Google Docs mobile app by selecting the text and tapping the format icon.

The process is slightly different on mobile devices, but it’s just as easy once you get the hang of it. Look for the "A" with a line through it in the formatting options.

Does strikethrough work on shared documents?

Yes, strikethrough works on shared documents, and it’s a great way to collaborate.

When working on shared documents, strikethrough is a non-destructive way to suggest changes or mark completed sections, making it a handy tool for teamwork.

Can I remove strikethrough formatting from text?

Yes, you can remove strikethrough formatting by following the same steps and deselecting the strikethrough option.

If you change your mind or accidentally apply strikethrough to the wrong text, it’s easy to reverse the formatting.

Can I apply strikethrough to multiple sections of text at once?

Yes, you can apply strikethrough to multiple sections by holding the Ctrl key (or Command key on Mac) and selecting different text portions before applying the format.

This is useful if you have several areas in your document that need to be struck through, saving you time by doing it all in one go.

Summary

  1. Highlight the text you want to strikethrough.
  2. Click on the "Format" menu.
  3. Select "Text" and then "Strikethrough".

Conclusion

Strikethrough in Google Docs is a nifty formatting tool that’s often overlooked but can be incredibly useful. Whether you’re editing a document, collaborating with others, or simply keeping track of tasks, knowing how to do a strikethrough can enhance your productivity and communication. Remember, it’s not just about crossing things out; it’s about creating clarity and focus in your work. So next time you find yourself in Google Docs, give the strikethrough feature a try and see how it can improve your document management. With the easy steps and helpful tips provided, you’ll be a strikethrough pro in no time. Happy editing!