How to Use Strikethrough in Google Docs

To apply strikethrough in Google Docs, follow these steps: Highlight the text you want to strikethrough, click on the “Format” button at the top, select “Text,” and finally, choose “Strikethrough.” You can also use the keyboard shortcut ‘Alt + Shift + 5’ (Windows) or ‘Command + Shift + X’ (Mac).

After completing the action, the selected text in your Google Docs document will have a line through it, indicating that it is strikethrough. This is a visual way of showing that something is deleted, incorrect, or no longer applicable, while still keeping the text visible for reference.

Introduction

Strikethrough is a text formatting tool in Google Docs that lets you add a horizontal line through the middle of the selected text. It’s a handy feature for various purposes, such as editing drafts, marking items off a list, or just adding a stylistic touch to your document. In this article, we will guide you through the process of applying strikethrough in Google Docs, explain why you might want to use it, and provide additional information to help you make the most of this feature.

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Strikethrough Process in Google Docs

Step 1: Open Your Document

First things first, open the Google Docs document you want to edit. Make sure you are logged in to your Google account to access all the features.

Step 2: Select the Text

Highlight the text you want to apply the strikethrough to. You can do this by clicking and dragging your cursor over the words.

Step 3: Access the Format Menu

Once the text is selected, navigate to the “Format” button in the top menu bar. Click on it to open a dropdown menu.

Step 4: Choose the Strikethrough Option

In the dropdown menu, hover your cursor over “Text” to open another submenu. Here, you will find the “Strikethrough” option. Click on it, and voila, your text is now struck through!

Step 5: (Optional) Use a Keyboard Shortcut

For those who love saving time, Google Docs has a keyboard shortcut for strikethrough. Simply press ‘Alt + Shift + 5’ on Windows or ‘Command + Shift + X’ on Mac, with the text selected.

Why Use Strikethrough?

Strikethrough is a versatile tool. It’s great for editing documents, as it allows you to show which parts need to be removed or revised without actually deleting the text. This is particularly useful when collaborating with others, as it keeps the original text visible for context. It can also add a layer of accountability, showing what changes were suggested or made. Beyond editing, strikethrough can be used stylistically, to create a sense of irony or to visually cross out completed items on a list.

Pros of Using Strikethrough

• Clear Visual Indicator: Strikethrough is an immediate visual cue that something in the document has been changed or is no longer relevant.
• Non-Permanent: Unlike deleting text, strikethrough keeps the original words in the document, which can be helpful for reference or if you need to revert changes.
• Easy to Use: The process to apply strikethrough in Google Docs is straightforward and quick.

Cons of Using Strikethrough

• Can Be Overused: Overusing strikethrough can make a document look cluttered and can be distracting to readers.
• May Be Confusing: Without proper context, readers might not understand why text is struck through, leading to confusion.
• Limited Stylistic Options: Unlike other text formatting options, strikethrough does not have various styles to choose from.

Additional Information

When using strikethrough in collaborative documents, it’s a good practice to accompany the strikethrough text with comments, explaining why the text was struck through or suggesting alternative wording. This ensures clear communication among all parties involved and makes the editing process smoother.

Rephrased Summary of the Strikethrough Process

1. Open the document in Google Docs.
2. Highlight the text you intend to strikethrough.
3. Navigate to the “Format” menu at the top of the screen.
4. Select “Text” and then choose “Strikethrough” from the submenu.
5. Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut ‘Alt + Shift + 5’ (Windows) or ‘Command + Shift + X’ (Mac) with the text highlighted.

FAQs

Q1: Can I strikethrough text using the Google Docs mobile app? A1: Yes, you can use the strikethrough feature in the Google Docs mobile app by selecting the text, tapping the “A” with a pencil icon, and choosing strikethrough.

Q2: Is there a way to remove strikethrough from text? A2: Yes, just follow the same steps used to apply strikethrough, and it will remove the line from the selected text.

Q3: Can I use strikethrough in comments within Google Docs? A3: Strikethrough formatting is not available directly in comments, but you can type out the text with the strikethrough applied and then copy-paste it into the comment box.

Q4: Is strikethrough available in other Google Workspace applications? A4: Yes, you can use strikethrough in other Google Workspace applications like Google Sheets and Google Slides.

Q5: Does strikethrough work the same way in other text editors? A5: Most text editors have a strikethrough feature, but the steps to apply it may vary. It’s usually found under the text formatting options.

Conclusion

Using strikethrough in Google Docs is a breeze, and it’s a fantastic way to visually indicate changes, suggestions, or completions in a document. Whether you’re editing a draft, collaborating on a project, or just want to add a bit of style to your text, strikethrough is a simple yet effective tool at your disposal. Remember, keep the use of strikethrough balanced to maintain a clean and readable document.