Inserting a checkbox in Google Docs is a neat way to create interactive to-do lists or checklists. You may want to use checkboxes without the strikethrough effect that usually comes when you tick them off. Below is a quick guide to help you accomplish just that.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Insert Checkbox in Google Docs Without Strikethrough
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re trying to achieve here. We’ll be creating checkboxes that can be checked off without the text getting crossed out. This can be particularly useful in various scenarios like voting lists, attendance sheets, or any situation where you need to maintain the legibility of the text.
Step 1: Open Google Docs
Open a new or existing document in Google Docs where you want to insert the checkboxes.
This step is pretty straightforward. Just go to docs.google.com and either start a new document or open the one you’re working on.
Step 2: Insert a Table
Insert a table in your document by clicking on ‘Insert’ then ‘Table’ and choose the size of the table you want.
Tables will help us organize our checkboxes neatly. You can decide on the number of rows and columns based on how many checkboxes you need.
Step 3: Use Bullet Points
In the cells where you want checkboxes, click on the bullet point icon and select the checkbox option.
You’ll find the bullet point icon in the toolbar. After clicking it, a dropdown menu will appear with different bullet styles, including checkboxes.
Step 4: Adjust the Strikethrough Settings
Click on the checkbox once it’s inserted, go to ‘Format’, ‘Text’, and uncheck ‘Strikethrough’.
This step ensures that when you click on the checkbox, the text next to it won’t get crossed out. You might have to do this for each checkbox, but it’s a one-time setup.
Step 5: Test Your Checkboxes
Click on the checkboxes to see if they work without applying the strikethrough effect.
After completing these steps, you should have functional checkboxes that can be ticked off while keeping your text intact.
After completing the steps above, you’ll have a Google Docs document with interactive checkboxes that don’t strikethrough text when checked. This can make your document look cleaner and more professional.
Tips for Inserting Checkbox in Google Docs Without Strikethrough
- Make sure you have the necessary editing permissions if you’re working on a shared document.
- You can resize your table cells to fit the size of your content for a more organized look.
- Consider using a different table cell for the checkbox and the text if you want more control over their formatting.
- Remember that these checkboxes are for visual purposes only; Google Docs doesn’t have an automatic function to tally checked boxes.
- If you’re making a checklist for others, you might want to protect parts of the document to prevent accidental changes to the structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these checkboxes on mobile?
Yes, you can insert and use checkboxes in Google Docs on mobile, but formatting might be easier on a computer.
Is there a limit to how many checkboxes I can insert?
No, there isn’t a limit. You can insert as many checkboxes as your document’s size permits.
Can I create a template with these checkboxes?
Absolutely! Once you’ve set up your document, you can save it as a template for future use.
Will the checkboxes work if I convert the document to PDF?
The checkboxes will appear in the PDF, but they won’t be interactive.
Can I track changes made to checkboxes in a shared document?
Google Docs does track changes, but you’ll have to manually check who ticked off each box.
Summary
- Open Google Docs
- Insert a Table
- Use Bullet Points
- Adjust the Strikethrough Settings
- Test Your Checkboxes
Conclusion
Inserting a checkbox in Google Docs without strikethrough is a simple, yet impactful way to organize tasks, maintain interactive lists, or gather feedback without compromising the readability of your text. Whether you’re a project manager keeping track of team deliverables, a teacher creating an attendance sheet, or just someone who loves a good checklist, mastering this skill can make document management more effective and visually appealing. Remember, the key is to use tables and bullet points creatively while tweaking the strikethrough settings to suit your needs. With the steps and tips outlined in this article, you’re now equipped to enhance your Google Docs experience. So why not give it a try on your next document? Your newly inserted checkboxes are waiting to be ticked off!
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.