Learning how to use strikethrough in google docs allows you to visually mark text as deleted or no longer relevant while keeping it visible for context. This formatting option draws a horizontal line through selected words, which is useful for suggesting edits, tracking changes in collaborative projects, or updating to-do lists. Users often seek a quick keyboard shortcut to apply this effect efficiently, saving valuable time during editing and review cycles without needing to navigate through menus.

Purpose of this guide

This guide is for any Google Docs user, including students, writers, and professionals, who wants to format documents more effectively. It solves the common need to clearly show text revisions or completed tasks without permanently deleting the original content. Here, you will learn the step-by-step methods for applying strikethrough via the menu and the much faster keyboard shortcut. By mastering this simple tool, you will improve collaboration, track changes more effectively, and streamline your entire editing process in Google Docs.

Introduction

After years of editing professional documents, I've discovered that strikethrough formatting in Google Docs is one of the most underutilized yet powerful tools for clear communication. What started as a simple way to mark deletions has evolved into my go-to method for tracking revisions, managing collaborative feedback, and even creating visual emphasis in presentations. The beauty of strikethrough lies not just in crossing out text, but in preserving the editing journey while maintaining document clarity.

In my experience working with teams across different industries, strikethrough has become essential for maintaining transparency in document evolution. Whether you're managing project timelines, collaborating on content creation, or simply want to show your thought process, mastering this formatting tool will transform how you approach document editing and team communication.

Understanding strikethrough in Google Docs

Strikethrough formatting creates a horizontal line through selected text, visually indicating deletion or completion without permanently removing the content. This formatting technique serves multiple purposes in professional document creation: it shows editing history, suggests content removal while preserving context, indicates task completion, and creates emphasis through crossed-out text.

When I first started using Google Docs professionally, I initially overlooked strikethrough as just another basic formatting option. However, after working on numerous collaborative projects, I realized its true value extends far beyond simple text deletion. The ability to maintain document transparency while clearly communicating changes has made strikethrough an indispensable part of my editing workflow.

The visual impact of strikethrough is immediately recognizable – text appears with a line drawn through its center, making it clear that the content has been marked for attention. Unlike deleting text entirely, strikethrough preserves the original content while clearly indicating your intention to remove or modify it, creating a valuable audit trail for document evolution.

How I apply strikethrough in Google Docs on desktop

Desktop applications offer the most comprehensive strikethrough functionality in Google Docs, with multiple methods available depending on your workflow preferences and situation. Over years of professional document editing, I've developed a systematic approach that progresses from the most accessible Format menu method to the highly efficient keyboard shortcuts that save significant time during extensive editing sessions.

The flexibility in method selection has proven invaluable in different scenarios. When training team members or working deliberately through complex edits, the Format menu provides clear visual guidance. For rapid editing sessions or when working with large documents, keyboard shortcuts become essential for maintaining productivity and workflow momentum.

My method using the Format menu

The Format menu approach represents the most straightforward path to applying strikethrough formatting, particularly valuable when teaching others or working through complex documents where deliberate formatting decisions are crucial. This method follows the exact path: Format > Text > Strikethrough, providing visual confirmation at each step.

1. Highlight the text you want to strikethrough
2. Click on “Format” in the top menu
3. Hover over “Text” in the dropdown menu
4. Click on “Strikethrough”

To apply strikethrough formatting, select text in Google Docs and use Format > Text > Strikethrough, or press Alt + Shift + 5 (Windows/ChromeOS) or Command + Shift + X (Mac).

While this method isn't the fastest available, I've found it particularly useful when working with team members who are less familiar with keyboard shortcuts, or when I need to access other text formatting options simultaneously. The visual menu structure also helps when training new users, as they can see all available formatting options in context.

My techniques for highlighting text for formatting

Effective text selection forms the foundation of successful strikethrough application, and I've developed specific techniques for different scenarios that significantly improve efficiency. For continuous text sections, a simple click-and-drag motion works perfectly, but more complex selection scenarios require strategic approaches.

When working with non-adjacent text sections, I use Ctrl+click (or Cmd+click on Mac) to select multiple separate text blocks simultaneously, allowing batch formatting that saves considerable time. For large document sections, the Shift+click method enables selection from the cursor position to the clicked location, particularly useful when formatting extensive content blocks.

These selection techniques become especially valuable when applying strikethrough formatting to multiple sections of lengthy documents. The ability to select non-contiguous text elements and format them simultaneously has reduced my editing time significantly, particularly when working on collaborative documents where multiple sections require similar formatting treatment.

The keyboard shortcuts I use daily

Keyboard shortcuts represent the most efficient method for applying strikethrough formatting, and I've memorized these combinations due to their dramatic impact on editing productivity. The platform-specific shortcuts – Alt+Shift+5 for Windows/Chrome OS and Command+Shift+X for Mac – have become second nature through daily use.

“On Windows: Alt + Shift + 5. On Mac: ⌘ + Shift + X.”
— GeeksforGeeks, 2024
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“Highlight the text you want to strike through and press Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or command + shift + X on Mac.”
— Zapier, 2024
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During a recent large-scale document revision project, these keyboard shortcuts saved me approximately 30 minutes compared to using menu navigation. The muscle memory developed through consistent use allows for seamless integration into the editing workflow, making strikethrough application feel as natural as basic text formatting like bold or italic.

How I use strikethrough in Google Docs on mobile

Mobile strikethrough functionality offers the same core capabilities as desktop versions, though the interface requires different navigation approaches. Through extensive mobile editing experience, I've discovered that while the process takes slightly more steps than desktop shortcuts, the functionality remains fully accessible and effective for on-the-go document editing.

The mobile implementation proves particularly valuable for quick edits during commutes or when reviewing documents away from a computer. While the touch interface requires more deliberate navigation than keyboard shortcuts, the ability to apply professional formatting from mobile devices has enhanced my productivity significantly.

My workflow on iOS devices

iOS devices provide intuitive strikethrough access through the formatting toolbar, though the process requires familiarity with the interface layout. The formatting options are well-organized within the mobile app, making strikethrough easily accessible once you know the navigation path.

1. Tap to edit your document
2. Select the text you want to format
3. Tap the “A” formatting icon at the top of the screen
4. Scroll through formatting options and tap “Strikethrough”

Through regular iOS usage, I've noticed that the interface occasionally changes with app updates, but the fundamental access path through the "A" formatting icon remains consistent. The touch selection process works smoothly for most text lengths, though precision selection of individual words sometimes requires multiple attempts on smaller screens.

My approach on Android devices

Android implementation follows a similar structure to iOS but with slight interface differences that reflect the platform's design language. The editing mode activation and formatting access maintain consistency with other Android applications, creating a familiar user experience.

1. Tap the edit icon (pencil) to enter editing mode
2. Select the text you want to strikethrough
3. Tap the “A” format icon in the top menu
4. Select “Strikethrough” from the formatting options

Comparing Android and iOS implementations, I find both platforms offer equivalent functionality with minor interface variations. Android's explicit edit mode activation provides clear feedback about document state, while iOS integrates editing more seamlessly into the navigation flow. Both approaches work effectively once you adapt to the platform-specific interface patterns.

How I remove strikethrough formatting

Removing strikethrough formatting requires understanding multiple approaches, each suited to different scenarios depending on whether you're changing your mind about an edit, cleaning a final document, or batch-removing formatting from multiple sections. The flexibility in removal methods has proven essential for maintaining clean document presentation.

In my professional workflow, I frequently encounter situations requiring strikethrough removal: finalizing documents for client presentation, cleaning up collaborative editing marks, or changing editorial decisions during the revision process. Having multiple removal methods ensures efficient formatting cleanup regardless of the scenario.

My process on Windows PC

Windows-based strikethrough removal follows predictable patterns that integrate well with standard Windows keyboard conventions. My preferred method involves the toggle approach – reapplying the same Alt+Shift+5 shortcut to selected strikethrough text immediately removes the formatting.

For batch removal scenarios, particularly when preparing final documents for publication, I use the Clear formatting approach (Ctrl+) which removes all formatting including strikethrough, bold, italic, and other text effects simultaneously. This method proves especially valuable when cleaning up documents that have accumulated multiple formatting layers during collaborative editing processes.

The Windows implementation also supports the immediate Undo function (Ctrl+Z) for quickly reversing recently applied strikethrough formatting, which I use frequently when experimenting with different formatting approaches during the editing process.

My technique on MacOS

Mac-specific removal techniques mirror the Windows approach but utilize Mac's standard keyboard conventions. The Command+Shift+X toggle method works identically to Windows, providing consistent cross-platform experience for users working on multiple operating systems.

Mac's Clear formatting shortcut (Command+) offers the same batch removal functionality as Windows, making it easy to clean up documents regardless of platform. The consistent keyboard convention alignment with other Mac applications makes these shortcuts feel natural within the broader Mac ecosystem.

Through extensive Mac usage, I've found the Command+Z undo function particularly responsive for immediate strikethrough removal, and the visual feedback in the Mac interface provides clear confirmation of formatting changes, making it easy to verify successful removal.

Creative ways I use strikethrough in my work

Professional strikethrough applications extend far beyond simple text deletion, encompassing revision tracking, task management, collaborative feedback, and visual communication strategies. Through years of document collaboration, I've discovered numerous creative applications that enhance team communication and project management efficiency.

One particularly effective application involves using strikethrough in project status documents to show completed milestones while maintaining the original timeline for reference. This approach provides immediate visual feedback about project progress while preserving the complete project scope for stakeholder review.

In collaborative content creation, I use strikethrough to suggest deletions while allowing team members to see the original content and understand the reasoning behind proposed changes. This transparency has significantly improved team communication and reduced revision cycles by making editorial intent clear.

When I choose to use strikethrough text

Strategic strikethrough application requires understanding the distinction between temporary editing use and permanent formatting for effect. In temporary scenarios, I use strikethrough during collaborative editing phases to suggest changes while preserving original content for team discussion and decision-making.

For permanent applications, strikethrough serves specific communication purposes: showing completed tasks in project documentation, indicating outdated information that requires context preservation, or creating visual emphasis in informal documents where humor or creative presentation enhances message effectiveness.

The decision between strikethrough and other text formatting options depends on whether the goal is deletion suggestion, completion indication, or visual emphasis. Unlike highlighting or bold formatting, strikethrough specifically communicates "this content is marked for attention" while maintaining readability of the original text.

How I use strikethrough across Google Workspace

Strikethrough functionality varies across Google Workspace applications, with each platform offering different levels of support and access methods. Understanding these differences enables consistent formatting approaches across multi-application projects while working within each platform's specific limitations and capabilities.

Cross-platform consistency becomes crucial when developing comprehensive project documentation that spans multiple Google Workspace applications. While Google Docs offers the most robust strikethrough support, understanding how to achieve similar visual effects in Sheets and Slides ensures cohesive presentation across all project materials.

My strikethrough techniques in Google Sheets

Google Sheets lacks native strikethrough functionality, requiring creative workarounds to achieve similar visual effects for data management applications. The most effective approach involves using custom cell formatting to create strikethrough-like visual indicators for completed tasks or revised data while maintaining original values.

In financial spreadsheets, I use conditional formatting combined with helper columns to automatically apply visual indicators when tasks are marked complete or when data requires revision. This approach provides the visual clarity of strikethrough while working within Sheets' formatting limitations.

For project management spreadsheets, I've developed a system using cell background colors and text formatting combinations that simulate strikethrough effects while providing clear completion status indicators. This technique maintains data integrity while providing immediate visual feedback about task status and project progress.

My approach to strikethrough in Google Slides

Google Slides supports strikethrough formatting within text boxes, though the implementation is more limited than Google Docs. The formatting must be applied to text within individual text elements, making it useful for specific presentation scenarios but less flexible than document-based applications.

In presentation contexts, I use strikethrough strategically to show progress on project timelines, contrast different options during decision-making presentations, or create visual interest in bullet point lists. The key is ensuring that strikethrough text remains readable to the audience while clearly communicating the intended message.

Presentation-specific best practices include using strikethrough sparingly to avoid visual clutter, ensuring sufficient contrast for audience visibility, and combining strikethrough with other visual elements like color changes to reinforce the formatting message across different viewing conditions and screen sizes.

How Google Docs strikethrough compares to my experience with other word processors

Cross-platform strikethrough functionality reveals significant differences in implementation, accessibility, and integration with other features. Through extensive work across multiple word processing platforms, I've identified distinct advantages and limitations that impact productivity and workflow efficiency.

Google Docs' strikethrough implementation excels in collaborative environments where real-time editing and immediate visual feedback enhance team productivity. The keyboard shortcuts are intuitive and consistent, while the Format menu provides clear access for less experienced users.

Microsoft Word offers deeper integration with Track Changes functionality, making strikethrough part of a more comprehensive revision control system. However, the collaboration features require more setup and don't provide the immediate accessibility of Google Docs' browser-based approach.

In cross-platform projects, I've found Google Docs' strikethrough formatting translates reasonably well when exporting to other formats, though some visual consistency may be lost depending on the target application and its specific formatting capabilities.

Troubleshooting strikethrough issues I've encountered

Common strikethrough problems stem from browser compatibility, user permissions, interface limitations, and format conversion challenges. Through extensive troubleshooting experience, I've developed systematic approaches to identify and resolve these issues quickly.

Browser extension conflicts represent one of the most common issues I encounter, particularly with productivity tools that override standard keyboard shortcuts. The solution involves temporarily disabling extensions or using the Format menu as an alternative access method.

Print visibility problems occur when strikethrough formatting doesn't translate effectively to printed documents. I've found that adjusting print settings or using PDF export instead of direct printing often resolves these visibility issues while maintaining formatting integrity.

Format conversion challenges arise when sharing documents with users of different word processors. Pre-testing format compatibility and providing multiple export options ensures recipients can access properly formatted content regardless of their preferred application.

How I've automated Google Docs with strikethrough

Automation integration transforms strikethrough from a manual formatting tool into part of systematic workflow processes that enhance productivity and ensure consistent document treatment. Through Google Apps Script and third-party automation tools, I've created systems that apply strikethrough formatting based on specific triggers and conditions.

One successful automation example involved creating a Google Apps Script that automatically applies strikethrough formatting to completed tasks in project documentation based on status column updates in connected Google Sheets. This integration eliminated manual formatting work while maintaining visual clarity about project progress.

Zapier integrations enable cross-platform automation where external trigger events can initiate strikethrough formatting in Google Docs. For instance, when project management tools mark tasks complete, automated workflows can update corresponding Google Docs documentation with appropriate strikethrough formatting, maintaining consistency across all project communication channels.

The measurable benefits include reduced manual formatting time, improved consistency across team documents, and enhanced visual communication about project status. These automation approaches have saved approximately 2-3 hours per week on large collaborative projects while improving document quality and team communication effectiveness.