Microsoft Word is one of the most widely used word processing tools, valued for its versatility and extensive formatting options. One such feature that can help you enhance your documents is the ability to strikethrough text. Strikethrough is useful for indicating deletions, edits, or items that are no longer relevant, making your documents clearer and more professional. If you're wondering how to apply strikethrough in Microsoft Word, this guide will walk you through the various methods step-by-step, so you can easily incorporate this formatting into your workflow.
How Do I Strikethrough Text in Microsoft Word?
Using the Font Dialog Box
The most straightforward way to apply strikethrough formatting is through the Font dialog box. Here's how:
- Select the text you want to strikethrough.
- Go to the Home tab on the Ribbon.
- Click on the small arrow in the bottom-right corner of the Font group to open the Font dialog box.
- In the Font dialog box, look for the Strikethrough checkbox.
- Check the box and click OK.
The selected text will now have a line through it, indicating strikethrough formatting.
Using Keyboard Shortcuts
For quick formatting, keyboard shortcuts are incredibly effective. Microsoft Word offers a simple shortcut to toggle strikethrough:
- Select the text you want to strikethrough.
- Press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box on Windows, or Command + D on Mac.
- Then, press Alt + K (Windows) or Option + Command + X (Mac) to toggle strikethrough.
Alternatively, in newer versions of Word, you can use the shortcut Ctrl + 5 (on Windows) to apply or remove strikethrough quickly.
Using the Ribbon Shortcut
Some versions of Word allow you to add the strikethrough button to the Quick Access Toolbar or Ribbon for even faster access:
- Right-click on the Ribbon and select Customize the Ribbon.
- Choose Commands Not in the Ribbon from the dropdown menu.
- Find and select Strikethrough.
- Click Add to add it to your Ribbon or Quick Access Toolbar.
- Now, simply select your text and click the strikethrough icon for instant formatting.
Applying Double Strikethrough
If you need a double line through your text, Microsoft Word also supports double strikethrough formatting:
- Select the desired text.
- Open the Font dialog box (Home tab > small arrow in the Font group).
- Check the box next to Double Strikethrough.
- Click OK.
This will apply a double line through your selected text, which can be useful for specific editing purposes or stylistic choices.
Using Styles and Formatting for Consistency
If you frequently use strikethrough formatting, consider creating a custom style:
- Format a sample text with strikethrough using any of the methods above.
- Go to the Styles pane on the Home tab.
- Click New Style.
- Name your style (e.g., "Strikethrough Style").
- Ensure the formatting options include strikethrough.
- Save and apply this style whenever needed for consistency across your document.
Removing Strikethrough
To remove strikethrough from text, simply select the text and:
- Open the Font dialog box (Home tab > arrow in the Font group).
- Uncheck the Strikethrough or Double Strikethrough box.
- Click OK.
Alternatively, if you've used the shortcut Ctrl + 5, pressing it again will toggle off the strikethrough formatting.
Summary of Key Points
Applying strikethrough in Microsoft Word can be achieved through multiple methods to suit your workflow:
- Use the Font dialog box for precise control and additional options like double strikethrough.
- Employ keyboard shortcuts such as Ctrl + 5 for quick toggling.
- Add strikethrough to the Quick Access Toolbar for faster access.
- Create custom styles for consistent formatting across documents.
- Remove strikethrough easily by unchecking the option or toggling the shortcut.
Understanding these methods will enable you to seamlessly incorporate strikethrough text into your Microsoft Word documents, whether for editing, reviewing, or stylistic purposes. Practice these techniques to enhance your productivity and create cleaner, more professional documents.