How to Strike Out in Google Docs

Striking out text in Google Docs is a straightforward process that allows you to visually indicate that something is no longer relevant or has been crossed off. This feature is handy for editing, brainstorming, or even making notes. But how exactly can you strike out text? Let’s dive into the various methods available for this task.

Method 1: Using the Format Menu

One of the simplest ways to strike out text in Google Docs is through the Format menu. Here’s how you can do it step-by-step:

1. Open Google Docs: Start by opening your document in Google Docs.
2. Highlight the Desired Text: Highlight the text you want to strike out by clicking and dragging your mouse. This action will select the text.
3. Access the Format Menu: Look for ‘Format’ in the top menu. It is located beside ‘Insert’ and ‘Tools.’
4. Select Text: Hover over ‘Text’ in the dropdown menu. A sub-menu will appear.
5. Choose Strikethrough: Finally, click on the ‘Strikethrough’ option. You will see that the selected text gets a line through it, indicating it has been struck out.

This method is excellent for users who prefer a visual interface and enjoy utilizing menus to access features.

Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts may be the way to go to speed up your workflow. Here’s how you can strike out text quickly:

1. Select Your Text: Like before, highlight the text you want to strike through.
2. Use the Shortcut: Press Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or Command + Shift + X on macOS. Once you do this, the selected text will be struck out instantly.

Keyboard shortcuts are particularly helpful if you frequently need to format text quickly and efficiently.

Method 3: Using the Toolbar

For those who prefer a mixed approach, the Google Docs toolbar has a dedicated option for text formatting, including strikethrough options. Here’s how to use it:

1. Highlight the Text: Select the section you wish to strike out.
2. Locate the Format Button: Look for the ‘Format’ button on the toolbar. It is typically represented by an ‘A’ with lines of various sizes, or you might see a menu of multiple text formatting options directly there.
3. Click on Strikethrough: If the strikethrough option appears on the toolbar (it might not be visible first), simply click it, and your text will be struck out.
4. Using the Custom Toolbar Option: If you don’t see the strikethrough option, you can always add it to your toolbar by customizing it through the settings.

This option combines visual and quick-access features, making it versatile for various users.

Practical Applications of Strikethrough

Now that you know how to strike out text in Google Docs, let’s explore its practical uses.

Editing and Revision

You may want to show edits or revisions when collaborating on a document or providing feedback. Strikethrough is an excellent way to indicate what has been removed or changed without deleting the text entirely. This approach can be useful when working in teams, as it shows transparency in the editing process.

Making Lists

Strikethrough is great for lists or to-do items. If you maintain a checklist, you can strike out items once they’re completed. This approach helps you visually track what’s left to do.

Creative Writing

For creative writing, striking out text can represent thought processes, showcasing ‘what could have been.’ This technique provides readers insight into the author’s mind, enriching the narrative.

Notes and Brainstorming

You might want to write and eliminate ideas simultaneously when jotting down ideas in a brainstorming session. Striking through text allows you to record all brainstormed ideas while showing which ones you’ve decided against.

Tips for Effective Use of Strikethrough

While knowing how to strike out text is important, using it effectively can enhance your document’s communication. Here are a few tips:

• Be Consistent: Use strikethrough in the same contexts across your document, for example, through all completed tasks or none.
• Explain Changes: If you strike out text as part of a review, consider adding comments explaining why the text was struck through, as this helps clarify the editing process for collaborators.
• Use in Conjunction with Comments: When paired with Google Docs’ comment feature, strikethrough can illustrate changes you’ll make but gives space for feedback from others.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to How To Strike Out In Google Docs

Q. Can I undo the strikethrough if I change my mind?
A. Certainly! You can easily undo the strikethrough by selecting the text again, repeating the strikeout method, or using the Undo shortcut, Ctrl + Z.

Q. Is strikethrough available on mobile devices?
A. Yes. In the Google Docs mobile app, strike through text by selecting it, tapping the formatting options, and choosing strikethrough.

Q. Can I apply strikethrough to multiple texts at once?
A. Absolutely! Highlight multiple text sections by clicking and dragging, then use the same method to add strikethrough.

Q. Does strikethrough affect text appearance in print?
A. Yes, strikethrough will show on printed versions of your document, so make sure you’re okay with what’s being represented.

Q. Can I find strikethrough text later in my document?
A. Yes, but searching for strikethrough specifically isn’t directly possible. You may need to scroll through the document or manually check.

Q. Is there a strikethrough option in Google Slides?
A. Yes! Using similar methods, you can use strikethrough in Google Slides, though the interface might differ slightly.

Q. Can I customize/modify the color of the strikethrough?
A. Unfortunately, Google Docs does not allow for the direct customization of the color of strikethrough text.

Q. Can I “strikethrough” text without deleting it?
A. Yes, that’s the primary purpose of strikethrough—it allows you to keep the text visible while indicating it’s irrelevant.

Q. Are there any keyboard shortcuts specifically for Mac users?
A. Yes, for Mac users, the shortcut is Command + Shift + X to apply strikethrough.

Q. How can I highlight text before applying strikethrough?
A. You can highlight text by clicking and dragging your mouse over the text area before using any of the abovementioned methods.

Conclusion

Understanding how to strike out text in Google Docs is a valuable skill that enhances document editing and collaboration. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or professional, utilizing this feature can improve your writing process and help convey your points.

Following the methods discussed, you can quickly apply strikeout formatting, making your editing tasks smoother and more organized. With a little practice, this tool becomes an integral part of your document creation process, allowing for more efficient communication.