So you need to cross out text in Google Docs? Maybe you're editing a document and want to show deleted content without actually removing it. Or collaborating with others who need to see your suggested changes. Honestly, I remember fumbling through menus for 10 minutes the first time I needed this. Why isn't it more obvious? Let's fix that.
Why Strikethrough Matters in Google Docs
Crossing out words isn't just about deleting stuff. When my team edits proposals, we use strikethrough to track changes visually. It's clearer than comments when showing what content got cut. Teachers often use it when grading papers too. And personally? I love crossing off completed tasks in my to-do lists – super satisfying.
Three Ways to Cross Out Text (With Pros & Cons)
Method 1: The Format Menu (Beginner Friendly)
This is how most people start:
- Highlight the text you want to cross out
- Click Format in the top menu
- Hover over Text
- Click Strikethrough (the S̶ icon)
Simple? Yes. Efficient? Not when you're editing a 50-page report. Still, this method works everywhere – desktop, mobile, Chromebooks.
Method 2: Keyboard Shortcuts (My Daily Driver)
Once you memorize these, you'll never go back:
| Platform | Shortcut | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windows/ChromeOS | Alt+Shift+5 | Works in browsers |
| Mac | ⌘+Shift+X | Same as Twitter strikethrough! |
| iOS | Double-tap word → Format → S̶ | No keyboard shortcut |
| Android | Long-press text → Format → S̶ | Varies by device |
Weirdly, the Windows shortcut uses the number 5 above the letters, not the numpad. Took me weeks to figure that out.
Method 3: The Toolbar Shortcut (Hidden Gem)
See that toolbar at the top? Most people miss this:
- Click Format options (⚙️ icon)
- Choose Customize toolbar
- Drag the Strikethrough icon to your bar
Now you've got one-click access. Seriously, why doesn't Google make this default?
Beyond Basics: Power User Tricks
Remove Strikethrough Like a Pro
Ever accidentally crossed out text and panicked? Just reapply the same method – it toggles off. Faster still:
- Windows: Ctrl+Space clears ALL formatting
- Mac: ⌘+Option+Space
Collaboration Secrets
When three editors strike through the same document:
| Situation | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Multiple editors | Combine with Suggesting Mode |
| Finalizing edits | Use Find/Replace to mass-delete crossed text |
| Color-coding | Change text color BEFORE crossing out |
Last month, my colleague crossed out critical budget numbers permanently. Disaster. Now we use red strikethrough for "review needed" and gray for "approved removal".
Troubleshooting Strikethrough Issues
Why Isn't It Working?
Common fixes when crossing out fails:
- Extension conflicts: Disable Grammarly/Hemingway temporarily
- Keyboard issues: Try Alt+Shift+5 on different keyboard sections
- Mobile glitches: Force-close and relaunch the app
If strikethrough appears but prints normally? Check your Page Setup → uncheck "Ignore document formatting".
Creative Uses Beyond Editing
Who says strikethrough is just for deletions?
- Price lists: $99
$150 - Checklists: ☐ Buy milk ☑
Pay rent - Sarcasm: This is
totallyamazing
My favorite? Making redacted government-style documents for fun presentations.
Strikethrough vs. Alternatives
When NOT to cross out words:
| Goal | Better Tool |
|---|---|
| Hide sensitive info | Black highlighting (still searchable!) |
| Temporary notes | Comments (won't confuse readers) |
| Major revisions | Version history → Restore earlier draft |
Fun fact: Crossing out works in Google Sheets too! But not in Forms or Slides.
Your Top Strikethrough Questions Answered
Can I cross out text in Google Docs mobile app?
Absolutely. Highlight text → tap Format (A̅ icon) → tap STRIKETHROUGH. Annoyingly buried, but it's there.
Why would strikethrough disappear randomly?
Usually happens when pasting formatted text. Fix: Paste as plain text (Ctrl+Shift+V), then reapply formatting.
Can I automate strikethrough?
Yes! Create a macro with Google Apps Script. Or use add-ons like Text Factory for bulk operations. Saves hours monthly!
Is there a way to cross out words diagonally?
Not natively. Hacky solution: Insert diagonal lines as images. But honestly? Not worth the effort.
Do strikethroughs show in PDF exports?
Yes, perfectly. Even preserves colors. Tested this morning with client deliverables.
Keyboard Shortcut Cheat Sheet
Print this and tape it to your monitor:
- Apply/remove strikethrough: Alt+Shift+5 (Win) / ⌘+Shift+X (Mac)
- Clear formatting: Ctrl+Space (Win) / ⌘+Option+Space (Mac)
- Paste without formatting: Ctrl+Shift+V (Universal)
- Find strikethrough text: Ctrl+H → Format → Strikethrough
Final Tip: Work Smarter
After helping 200+ students learn Google Docs, here's my golden rule: Combine shortcuts with voice typing. Say "select previous word" → strikeout shortcut. Hands-free editing!
Mastering how to cross out words in Google Docs seems trivial until you're editing contracts at midnight. Then it's everything. What's your strikethrough horror story?
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