how to slash word in excel
Want to put a slash through a word in Excel? It’s super easy! You just need to use the Strikethrough feature. This can be done through the Format Cells menu or by using a keyboard shortcut. In just a few clicks, you can make your text look like it’s been crossed out or "slashed."
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Slash Word in Excel
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to use Excel’s Strikethrough feature to slash through a word. Follow these steps and you’ll have your text crossed out in no time.
Step 1: Select the Cell or Text
First, select the cell or the specific text within the cell where you want to apply the strikethrough.
This can be done by clicking directly on the cell or highlighting the text inside the cell if you’re dealing with multiple words.
Step 2: Open the Format Cells Menu
Next, right-click the selected cell and choose "Format Cells" from the context menu.
When you right-click, a menu will pop up. "Format Cells" is usually near the bottom of this menu.
Step 3: Navigate to the Font Tab
In the Format Cells dialog box, go to the "Font" tab.
You’ll see several tabs at the top of the dialog box. Click on the one labeled "Font" to proceed.
Step 4: Check the Strikethrough Option
Look for the "Strikethrough" checkbox and click it to add a checkmark.
It’s located under the "Effects" section in the Font tab. Once you find it, just click to enable it.
Step 5: Press OK
Finally, click the "OK" button to apply the changes.
Once you hit OK, the dialog box will close and you’ll see your selected text with a slash through it.
After you complete these steps, your text or word will have a line through it, indicating it has been "slashed." This is a great way to show that a task has been completed or to mark something as obsolete.
Tips on How to Slash Word in Excel
- Use the Strikethrough keyboard shortcut: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + 5 to quickly apply or remove strikethrough formatting.
- Quick Access Toolbar: Add the Strikethrough button to your Quick Access Toolbar for even faster access.
- Conditional Formatting: Use conditional formatting to automatically apply strikethrough to cells that meet specific criteria.
- VBA Code: For advanced users, VBA code can automate the strikethrough process for large datasets.
- Formatting multiple cells: Select multiple cells at once to apply strikethrough formatting to all of them simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove a strikethrough in Excel?
Simply repeat the steps above and uncheck the "Strikethrough" option, or use the Ctrl + 5 shortcut again.
Can I apply strikethrough to part of the text in a cell?
Yes, you can. Select just the part of the text you want to format before following the steps.
Is there a way to apply strikethrough automatically?
Yes, you can use conditional formatting or VBA code to apply strikethrough automatically.
Can I use strikethrough in Excel for Mac?
Yes, the steps are similar. You can also use Cmd + Shift + X as a shortcut.
Does strikethrough affect cell values?
No, strikethrough is purely a formatting option and does not change the cell’s value.
Summary
- Select the Cell or Text
- Open the Format Cells Menu
- Navigate to the Font Tab
- Check the Strikethrough Option
- Press OK
Conclusion
Learning how to slash a word in Excel can be a lifesaver for organizing your data. Whether you want to mark tasks as done, highlight changes, or simply give your spreadsheet a bit of flair, the Strikethrough feature is your friend.
It’s quick, easy, and can be done in just a few steps. Plus, now you’ve got some extra tips and tricks up your sleeve to make this process even smoother.
So go ahead and give it a try—your Excel sheets will thank you! And if you’re looking for more advanced Excel skills, consider exploring conditional formatting or VBA automation. Your journey with Excel is just beginning, and mastering these small tricks can make a big difference in your productivity.

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.