Learning how to strikethrough text in Microsoft Word is a quick and simple task. By following a few easy steps, you can cross out words or sentences, making them appear with a line through the middle. This can be useful for editing, adding emphasis, or showing revisions. Let’s get started with the specifics.
How to Strike Through in Word
In the steps below, you’ll learn a straightforward method to apply strikethrough formatting to text in Microsoft Word.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word
First, open Microsoft Word.
Make sure you have the document ready where you want to apply the strikethrough. If you don’t already have Word installed, you’ll need to install it first or use the web version.
Step 2: Select the Text
Second, highlight the text you want to strikethrough.
Click and drag your cursor over the text, or hold down the Shift key and use the arrow keys to select the text if you prefer using the keyboard.
Step 3: Find the Strikethrough Button
Third, locate the strikethrough button on the Ribbon.
In the Home tab, look for the Strikethrough button in the Font group. It looks like a capital “ABC” with a line through the middle.
Step 4: Apply the Strikethrough
Fourth, click the Strikethrough button.
Once you click it, the selected text will have a line through it, indicating the strikethrough is applied.
Step 5: Save Your Document
Finally, save your changes.
Press Ctrl + S on your keyboard or click the Save icon to ensure your work is not lost.
After completing these steps, your selected text will have a line through it, indicating it is struck through. You can always remove the strikethrough by repeating the steps and unclicking the Strikethrough button.
Tips for How to Strike Through in Word
- Use keyboard shortcuts: Press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box and check the Strikethrough option.
- Customize the Ribbon: Add the Strikethrough button to your Quick Access Toolbar for easy access.
- Use Double Strikethrough: Open the Font dialog box and check Double Strikethrough for an extra emphasis.
- Combine with Other Formatting: You can combine strikethrough with bold, italics, or underline for more emphasis.
- Review Tab: Use the Review tab to track changes and show revisions with strikethrough automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shortcut for strikethrough in Word?
The shortcut for strikethrough in Word is Ctrl + D, then check the Strikethrough option in the Font dialog box.
Can I use strikethrough in Word Online?
Yes, you can use strikethrough in Word Online. Highlight the text, then click the Strikethrough button in the Font group under the Home tab.
Can I strikethrough text in a table?
Yes, you can. Highlight the text within the table cell and apply the strikethrough as usual.
How do I remove strikethrough from text?
To remove strikethrough, highlight the text and click the Strikethrough button again to toggle it off.
Is there a double strikethrough option?
Yes, you can apply a double strikethrough by opening the Font dialog box (Ctrl + D) and checking the Double Strikethrough option.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Word.
- Select the text.
- Find the strikethrough button.
- Click the Strikethrough button.
- Save your document.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to strike through in Word, you can easily edit and format your documents with precision. This simple feature can be a powerful tool for revising and annotating your text. Whether you’re collaborating on a project or just making notes for yourself, strikethroughs can help you communicate more effectively.
If you’re interested in learning more about formatting text in Microsoft Word, consider exploring other features like highlighting, text effects, and advanced find-and-replace functions. Keep experimenting with different formatting options to make your documents as clear and professional as possible. Happy editing!

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.