To use strikethrough in Google Docs, highlight the text you want to strike through, click on ‘Format’ at the top, hover over ‘Text,’ and then click on ‘Strikethrough’. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut ‘Alt + Shift + 5’ on Windows or ‘Command + Shift + X’ on Mac.
When you apply strikethrough to text in Google Docs, the selected text will have a line running through its center. This visual representation indicates that the text is marked for deletion or correction, making it clear that the text is no longer valid or applicable while still keeping it visible for context.
Introduction
Strikethrough is a text formatting feature used in Google Docs, and other word processors, that lets you draw a line directly through a selected portion of text. It’s kind of like crossing something out on a physical piece of paper, but in a digital format. Have you ever written something down and then changed your mind? Instead of erasing it or starting over, you can just strike through the text to show that it’s no longer needed, all while keeping it there for reference.
This tool is incredibly handy for collaborative work. Imagine you’re working on a document with a team. Instead of deleting text that you think should be removed, you can strike it through. This way, your teammates can see what you’re suggesting to remove and can make the decision to keep it or not. It’s also useful for editing your own work, allowing you to make changes without losing sight of your original text. From students working on group projects to professionals collaborating on reports, knowing how to use strikethrough in Google Docs is a valuable skill.
Related: How to Change Google Docs Background Color
Step by Step Tutorial
In this section, I’ll walk you through how to use the strikethrough feature in Google Docs step by step, ensuring that even if you’re a complete beginner, you’ll be able to follow along easily.
Step 1: Open Your Google Docs Document
Navigate to Google Docs and open the document you want to edit.
This is your starting point. Ensure you’re logged into your Google account and have the document open that you want to work on. If you haven’t created a document yet, you can do so by clicking on the ‘+’ sign that says ‘Blank’ to create a new document.
Step 2: Highlight the Text
Use your cursor to highlight the text you want to strikethrough.
Click and drag your cursor over the text that you want to apply the strikethrough formatting to. Make sure you’ve selected exactly what you want to strike through, whether it’s a single word, a sentence, or an entire paragraph.
Step 3: Apply Strikethrough
Apply the strikethrough formatting by navigating to ‘Format’ > ‘Text’ > ‘Strikethrough’ or using the keyboard shortcut.
Once your text is highlighted, click on ‘Format’ in the top menu. From there, hover over ‘Text’, which will open another menu. In this new menu, click on ‘Strikethrough’. Alternatively, if you’re a fan of keyboard shortcuts, you can press ‘Alt + Shift + 5’ on Windows or ‘Command + Shift + X’ on Mac.
Pros
Strikethrough in Google Docs is not just a visual tool; it has several practical benefits that can enhance your document editing experience.
Clarity
Strikethrough provides clear visual feedback.
Using strikethrough ensures that anyone reading the document can easily see which parts are being suggested for removal. It provides clarity and makes the editing process transparent.
Non-Destructive Editing
Allows for changes without permanent deletion.
By using strikethrough, you’re able to suggest edits and changes without permanently deleting any text. This is particularly useful in collaborative settings where multiple people are providing input on a document.
Accountability
Keeps a visual history of changes.
Strikethrough keeps a record of what changes are being suggested, promoting accountability in collaborative settings. It’s clear who is suggesting to remove or change parts of the text, which can be crucial in work or academic settings.
Cons
While strikethrough is a valuable tool, it also has its limitations.
Can Be Overused
Excessive strikethrough can lead to a cluttered document.
If used excessively, strikethrough can make a document look cluttered and confusing, particularly if there are a lot of suggested edits and changes.
Not Always Appropriate
May not be suitable for formal documents.
In formal documents or final drafts, strikethrough should be avoided. It’s a tool for the editing process, not for the final product.
Potential for Confusion
Can be confusing if not everyone understands how to use it.
In collaborative settings, if not all team members are familiar with how to use or interpret strikethrough, it can lead to confusion.
Additional Information
Understanding how to use strikethrough in Google Docs is straightforward, but there are a few additional tips and tricks that might help you along the way. First, remember that you can also apply strikethrough to text in comments, not just in the main body of the document. This can be useful for making suggestions or giving feedback without altering the actual document.
You might also find it helpful to familiarize yourself with the ‘Suggesting’ mode in Google Docs. This feature allows you to make suggestions that appear as comments, providing a clear and organized way to propose changes that can be accepted or rejected by the document owner.
Furthermore, keep in mind that strikethrough is just one of many formatting options available in Google Docs. Learning how to effectively use other formatting options like bold, italic, underline, and text color can further enhance your ability to create and edit documents like a pro.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs document.
- Highlight the text you want to strikethrough.
- Apply strikethrough formatting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use strikethrough in Google Sheets or Slides?
Yes, you can use strikethrough in Google Sheets and Google Slides using similar steps or keyboard shortcuts as in Google Docs.
Is there a keyboard shortcut for strikethrough in Google Docs?
Yes, you can use ‘Alt + Shift + 5’ on Windows or ‘Command + Shift + X’ on Mac.
Can I remove strikethrough formatting?
Yes, just highlight the text with strikethrough and follow the same steps or use the same keyboard shortcut to remove it.
Can I use strikethrough in Google Docs on mobile?
Yes, but the process might be slightly different depending on your device. Look for the strikethrough option in the text formatting tools.
Do all collaborators need to have edit access to see strikethrough?
No, anyone with viewing or commenting access can see strikethrough formatting, but they won’t be able to add or remove it.
Conclusion
Strikethrough in Google Docs is a simple yet powerful tool that can significantly enhance your document editing experience. Whether you’re working on a personal project, collaborating with classmates on a group assignment, or making suggestions on a colleague’s report, knowing how to effectively use strikethrough can make the process smoother and more transparent. With the step-by-step tutorial provided, along with the additional tips and tricks, you should now feel confident in your ability to use this feature to its full potential.
Remember, while strikethrough is a fantastic tool for suggesting edits and changes, it’s important to use it judiciously to avoid cluttering your document. And don’t forget to explore other formatting options in Google Docs to expand your editing capabilities even further.
Now go forth and strike through with confidence!
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.