How to Get Crossed-Out Text in Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crossed-out text, also known as strikethrough, is a formatting tool that adds a horizontal line through text to indicate removal, edits, or completed tasks. Whether you’re revising a document, collaborating with a team, or tracking goals, this guide will show you how to use strikethrough in Google Docs across devices—and even share creative ways to apply it effectively.

What Is Crossed-Out Text (Strikethrough)?

Strikethrough is a text style that draws a line through selected words or sentences. Common uses include:

• Editing drafts: Marking text for deletion without erasing it.
• Task management: Crossing off completed items in to-do lists.
• Collaborative feedback: Highlighting changes during team reviews.
• Humor or sarcasm: Adding informal emphasis in casual documents.

Why Use Strikethrough in Google Docs?
Google Docs’ strikethrough feature improves productivity by:

• Keeping a visual record of edits.
• Simplifying collaboration with clear revision markers.
• Organizing tasks or brainstorming sessions.

Basic Methods to Apply Strikethrough Text

Method 1: Using the Format Menu

Step 1: Highlight the text you want to cross out.
Step 2: Click the Format tab in the top menu.
Step 3: Select Text > Strikethrough from the dropdown.

Method 2: Keyboard Shortcuts

• Windows/Chromebook: Press Alt + Shift + 5 (hold all three keys).
• macOS: Press ⌘ (Command) + Shift + X.

Pro Tip: These shortcuts toggle strikethrough on/off, making it easy to reverse formatting.

Method 3: Add Strikethrough to the Toolbar

Customize Google Docs’ toolbar for one-click access:

1. Click the ⋮ (More Options) icon on the far right of the toolbar.
2. Select Show the “Strikethrough” button.
3. The strikethrough icon (S) will now appear in your toolbar.

Advanced Methods & Tips

1. Use Add-Ons for Bulk Strikethrough Edits

Install the Advanced Find and Replace add-on to:

• Apply strikethrough to multiple instances of a word or phrase.
• Batch-format text based on patterns (e.g., all numbers or dates).

Steps:

1. Install the Add-on: Go to Extensions > Add-ons > Get add-ons.
2. Open Advanced Find and Replace and search for your target text.
3. Use the Format options to apply strikethrough to matched results.

2. Mobile App Instructions

On Android/iOS:

1. Highlight the text in the Google Docs app.
2. Tap the Format icon (the letter A with horizontal lines).
3. Under the Text tab, select Strikethrough.

3. Combine Strikethrough with Other Formatting

For emphasis, pair strikethrough with:

• Italics or bold: Canceled Event.
• Highlight colors: Use red for urgent edits or green for resolved tasks.

Avoid Overuse: Too much formatting can clutter documents. Stick to 1-2 styles at a time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem 1: Strikethrough Option Missing

Fix:

• Update your browser: Outdated browsers may lack full Google Docs compatibility.
• Check app version: On mobile, update Google Docs via the Play Store or App Store.
• Reset the toolbar: Re-add the strikethrough button (see Method 3 above).

Problem 2: Shortcut Not Working

Fix:

• macOS users: Ensure ⌘ + Shift + X isn’t conflicting with system shortcuts (check System Settings > Keyboard).
• Use a different browser: Chrome typically works best with Google Workspace.

Problem 3: Remove Strikethrough

Solution: Reapply the same method used to add it:

• Highlight the text and press the shortcut.
• Re-select the strikethrough option in the Format menu or toolbar.

Best Practices & Creative Uses

When to Use Strikethrough Effectively

• Collaborative Writing: Let teammates see proposed deletions without losing original content.
• To-Do Lists: Create checklists with finished tasks.
• Academic Work: Show revisions in essays or research papers (e.g., old data or hypotheses).

Alternatives to Strikethrough

• Comments: Use Insert > Comment for detailed feedback.
• Highlighting: Temporally mark text for review.
• Suggesting Mode: Track edits formally (go to Editing Mode > Suggesting).

Accessibility Considerations

• Screen readers may not consistently announce strikethrough text. For critical edits, pair strikethrough with a comment explaining the change.

Conclusion

Adding crossed-out text in Google Docs is simple, but mastering it can streamline your workflow for editing, collaboration, or task management. Use keyboard shortcuts for speed, explore add-ons for bulk edits, and apply strikethrough strategically to keep documents clean and communicative.

Practicing these methods will ensure you’re prepared for everything from casual note-taking to formal document reviews!

Appendices

FAQ

Q: Can I use strikethrough in Google Sheets?
A: Yes! Highlight cells, go to Format > Text > Strikethrough, or use the shortcut Alt + Shift + 5 (Windows) or ⌘ + Shift + X (Mac).

Shortcut Quick Reference

Google Docs Help Resources

• Google Docs Editors Help: Format Text
• Advanced Find and Replace Add-On

This guide balances technical steps with practical advice, ensuring readers of all skill levels can apply strikethrough effectively. Let me know if you need additional details!