Spencer Lanoue
Strikethrough text is one of those formatting tools you might not use every day, but when you need it, it's a lifesaver. Whether you're drafting a document and want to keep track of changes, creating a to-do list where completed items are crossed out, or making a point in a more visual way, knowing how to apply strikethrough in Google Docs can be incredibly useful. In this guide, we'll explore the ins and outs of using strikethrough, focusing particularly on how to do it quickly using a keyboard shortcut.
Why Use Strikethrough in Google Docs?
Before we jump into the how-to, let's take a moment to discuss why strikethrough is a handy feature in Google Docs. Perhaps you're revising a document and want to keep track of what's been cut without losing the original text. Maybe you're managing a to-do list and want a visual indication of tasks you've completed. Or, you might want to add a bit of humor or emphasis by crossing out words for effect. Strikethrough lets you see what's been changed without deleting it entirely, making it a versatile tool for many document needs.
Strikethrough text is more than just an editing tool. It can be a way to inject personality into your writing. For instance, you might say you're absolutely thrilled about a project, and then add a strikethrough to the "thrilled" part to indicate a bit of sarcasm or a change of heart. It's subtle, but it adds an extra layer of communication to your text.
Using the Menu to Apply Strikethrough
Let's start with the more traditional way of applying strikethrough in Google Docs: using the menu. While this might not be the quickest method, it's helpful to know in case you're working on a device without a keyboard or simply prefer using menus.
- Select the text you want to strikethrough.
- Go to the "Format" menu at the top of your screen.
- Hover over "Text" to see more options.
- Click on "Strikethrough."
And just like that, your selected text is now struck through. While this method works perfectly fine, it does take a few clicks and a bit of navigation. For those who like to work efficiently, a keyboard shortcut can save time.
The Shortcut for Strikethrough
Now, for the moment you've been waiting for: the keyboard shortcut. If you're a fan of keyboard shortcuts, you'll appreciate how quickly you can apply strikethrough to your text using this method.
Here's how it works:
- On Windows: Highlight the text you want to strikethrough, then press
Alt + Shift + 5. - On Mac: Highlight your text, then press
Command + Shift + X.
It's that simple. With your text highlighted, just press the right combination, and strikethrough is applied instantly. This shortcut is a real time-saver, especially if you're in the middle of a writing flow and want to make edits quickly without breaking concentration.
How to Remove Strikethrough
What if you change your mind and want to remove the strikethrough? No problem. Removing it is just as straightforward as applying it. Simply highlight the text that has the strikethrough applied and press the same keyboard shortcut you used to apply it. Voila! Your text is back to normal.
This method of toggling the strikethrough on and off is intuitive and keeps your document clean and easy to read. Plus, it allows you to try out formatting without worrying about committing to it permanently.
Using Strikethrough for Task Lists
Strikethrough is particularly handy for managing task lists. If you're using Google Docs to keep track of your to-dos, applying strikethrough to completed tasks can give you a satisfying visual indication of progress.
To make the most of this, try setting up a simple task list:
- Create a bulleted or numbered list of tasks.
- As you complete each task, highlight it and use the strikethrough shortcut to cross it out.
This approach not only helps you stay organized but also provides a motivational boost as you see more and more tasks get crossed off your list. There's something undeniably rewarding about visually seeing what you've accomplished, and strikethrough makes that easy.
Strikethrough in Collaborative Documents
Google Docs is often used for collaboration, and strikethrough can play a valuable role here too. When multiple people are editing a document, using strikethrough to indicate changes can help everyone stay on the same page. It's a way of suggesting edits without outright deleting someone else's work, which can be important in maintaining team harmony.
Consider this scenario. You and your colleagues are drafting a report. You notice a section that needs revision, but instead of deleting it, you apply strikethrough and add a comment explaining your reasoning. This way, your team can see your suggested change and discuss it before making any permanent deletions. It's a respectful and transparent way to handle edits in a shared document.
Strikethrough in Different Formats
Interestingly enough, strikethrough isn't just limited to plain text. You can use it in tables, headers, and even with bullet points. This flexibility makes it a versatile tool across different parts of your document.
For example, if you're working on a table and need to indicate that certain data is outdated or incorrect, applying strikethrough can communicate this clearly without removing the data entirely. It provides context for anyone reviewing the document later, showing what has changed and what the previous information was.
Automating Strikethrough with Spell
While the shortcut method is fast, sometimes you might want to automate the process even further, especially if you're working on large documents or need to apply strikethrough frequently. This is where Spell can be a helpful tool. With Spell, you can use natural language prompts to edit your documents, including applying strikethrough, without manually selecting text or remembering shortcut keys.
Imagine having Spell apply strikethrough to all instances of a specific word or phrase across your document in one go. This could save you tons of time, especially in long reports or manuscripts. Plus, Spell allows for seamless collaboration, so you can work with your team in real-time, making adjustments quickly and efficiently.
Using Strikethrough for Creative Writing
Strikethrough isn't just for mundane edits, it can also be a creative tool. Writers sometimes use it to show a character's internal thoughts or to create a humorous effect. By striking through certain words or phrases, you invite readers to consider the text differently, adding depth or humor to your writing.
For instance, you might have a character who thinks, "I should probably definitely not call them back," where the strikethrough adds a layer of indecision or irony. Using this technique sparingly can add a unique voice to your writing, making your narrative more engaging.
Final Thoughts
Strikethrough is a simple yet powerful tool that can enhance your documents in Google Docs, whether you're editing, managing tasks, or adding a creative flair to your writing. By mastering the shortcut, you can apply this formatting quickly and efficiently. And if you're looking to automate your document editing process, Spell offers a seamless way to integrate AI into your workflow, making it faster and easier to manage your documents. It's all about finding the right tools to make your writing process smoother and more enjoyable.
