How to Strikethrough Text in Word (+ Shortcut)

How to Strikethrough Text in Word

Strikethrough draws a line through text so readers can see what was removed or completed, for example in edited drafts or checklists.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Method 1: The Strikethrough button

1. Select the text you want to cross out.
2. On the Home tab, in the Font group, click Strikethrough (the abc button with a line through it).

Method 2: The Font dialog (also for double strikethrough)

1. Select the text.
2. Press Ctrl+D (or click the small arrow in the corner of the Font group).
3. Under Effects, tick Strikethrough or Double strikethrough, then click OK.

Method 3: Keyboard shortcut

• Mac: press Cmd+Shift+X.
• Windows: there is no default shortcut. You can add one in File > Options > Customize Ribbon > Keyboard shortcuts: Customize, then pick the Home Tab category and the Strikethrough command.

Remove strikethrough

Select the text and click the Strikethrough button again, or untick the box in the Font dialog.

Strikethrough versus Track Changes

Strikethrough is only formatting: the text stays in the document. If you want Word to record deletions for a reviewer, use Track Changes instead: see how to remove or turn off Track Changes when you are done.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t apply features inconsistently—maintain consistent formatting throughout your document
• Avoid over-using features—sometimes simplicity is more professional than complexity
• Don’t forget to save regularly—prevent losing work due to unexpected closures

Tips and Tricks

• Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow when using this feature repeatedly
• Explore the feature’s options thoroughly to discover capabilities you may not initially notice
• Test your document on different computers and printers to ensure results display consistently

Further Reading

• Microsoft Support — Word — Official Microsoft documentation provides detailed instructions on applying strikethrough and other text formatting in Word.
• Microsoft Office Help — Comprehensive resource for troubleshooting and learning various Office features, including text formatting options like strikethrough.
• Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab) — Offers guidance on writing and editing conventions, including the use of strikethrough to indicate deleted or revised content.