Google Docs is packed with cool shortcuts and tricks, but sometimes, we just need the basics — like how to use strikethrough. Want to cross out your text in style? Whether it’s for a to-do list or marking edits, strikethrough can be your digital highlighter. Let’s keep it short, sweet, and straight to the point.
TL;DR: Hit Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or Command + Shift + X on Mac to quickly strikethrough text in Google Docs. It works like magic — just select your text, press those keys, and boom! If shortcuts aren’t your thing, there’s a menu way, too. Keep reading for step-by-step goodness!
What Is Strikethrough?
Strikethrough is that cool effect where a line crosses out text. Like this: I’m done!. It doesn’t delete the words — it just crosses them out to show they’re no longer needed.
Writers, editors, and list-makers love it. It keeps things neat while showing changes or what’s been completed.
The Super Shortcut Way
Alright, here comes the fun part — the keyboard shortcut! Google Docs loves shortcuts, and this one is a game-changer.
For Windows: Alt + Shift + 5
For Mac: Command + Shift + X
Here’s how you do it:
- Select the text you want to cross out.
- Press the keyboard shortcut combo based on your computer.
- Voila! Your text is now stylishly struck through.
And if you want to un-strike it? Just press the same keys again. It works like a switch — on and off.
If You Prefer the Manual Method
Not everyone is a shortcut ninja. No worries! You can still apply strikethrough the long way.
Follow these steps:
- Highlight the text you want to strike through.
- Click on the “Format” menu at the top of the screen.
- Hover over “Text”.
- Click on “Strikethrough”.
Done! Your text is now crossed out without a keyboard wizard move. Easy, right?
When Should You Use Strikethrough?
Now that you’re a strikethrough pro, let’s talk about why and when you might want to use it. It’s a small effect with big uses.
- To-do lists: Cross out tasks you’ve completed.
- Editing text: Show what changes you’ve made without deleting anything.
- Collaborating: Communicate revision suggestions.
- Humor & irony: Add a little flair or sarcasm to your writing.
Strikethrough is one of those underrated tools that can really tidy things up while keeping your document interactive and fun.
Quick Practice Time!
Want to try it right now?
Type: “This is my first strikethrough” into any Google Docs doc.
Select it. Then press your shortcut (Alt + Shift + 5 or Command + Shift + X).
See? You just did it! Easy. Fun. Useful.
Bonus: Creating a Fancy To-Do List
Let’s take this strikethrough skill to the next level. Use it to build a live checklist!
Here’s how:
- Create a list of things to do.
- As each task is done — strikethrough it using your shortcut.
- Add a ✅ emoji for extra flair (optional but fun!).
Example:
Write article about strikethrough✅Take a break and stretch✅- Publish the article 📝
Now, it’s not just functional — it looks awesome too!
Customize Your Keyboard Shortcuts?
Sadly, Google Docs doesn’t let you customize built-in shortcuts (yet!). But who knows? Maybe one day we’ll get to choose our own strikethrough buttons.
For now, just memorize Alt+Shift+5 or Command+Shift+X. It’s like the secret handshake among Docs users.
Bonus: Mobile Users, We Didn’t Forget You
On your phone or tablet? Here’s how you strikethrough when using the Google Docs app:
- Select the text you want to edit.
- Tap the “A” icon on the top menu (this brings up the text formatting tools).
- Go to the “Text” tab and scroll down until you see “Strikethrough”.
- Tap it — done!
No shortcut on mobile, but still simple enough with a few taps.
Oops, It Didn’t Work?
Sometimes a shortcut won’t work the first time. Try these tips:
- Make sure your keyboard layout matches (especially non-English layouts).
- Don’t select more than one text element or header (just basic text).
- Try using the menu method to confirm it’s not a browser issue.
If all else fails, a quick browser restart can perform miracles.
Helpful Tip: Combine It with Other Formatting!
You can totally mix strikethrough with other styles like bold, italic, and color.
Boom. Style explosion.
Just select your text, apply strikethrough, and add any other formatting you like. It all stacks!
Wrapping Things Up
You made it — strikethrough master! Whether you’re crossing off tasks or editing drafts, this feature is now part of your digital toolkit.
Remember:
- Windows: Alt + Shift + 5
- Mac: Command + Shift + X
- Mobile: Use the formatting menu
Strikethrough isn’t just a line through words — it’s a symbol of progress, edits, and digital style!
So now that you know how to strikethrough on Google Docs, go forth and boldly cross things off like the pro you are.
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