How to Cross Out Text in Google Docs
Learn how to strikethrough text in Google Docs using the Format menu or faster keyboard shortcuts on Windows and Mac.
- google-docs
- text-formatting
- productivity
Need to cross out text in Google Docs? The feature you are looking for is called strikethrough. It puts a line through your selected text, which is useful when you want to show removed words, completed tasks, old prices, edits, or anything that should stay visible but marked as crossed out.
Google Docs gives you two easy ways to do this. You can use the Format menu, or you can use a keyboard shortcut if you want to work faster.
Quick answer
To cross out text in Google Docs, select the text, then go to Format > Text > Strikethrough.
You can also use these shortcuts:
- Windows:
Alt + Shift + 5 - Mac:
Command + Shift + X
Use the same shortcut again to remove strikethrough.
Step-by-step text guide
Method 1: Use the Format menu
First, open your document in Google Docs.
Select the text you want to cross out.
Then go to the top menu and click Format.
Hover over Text.
Click Strikethrough.
Your selected text will now have a line through it.
This method is simple and easy to remember, especially if you do not use strikethrough very often.
Method 2: Use the keyboard shortcut
The faster way is to use a keyboard shortcut.
On Windows, select your text and press:
Alt + Shift + 5
On Mac, select your text and press:
Command + Shift + X
Once you get used to this shortcut, it is much faster than opening the menu every time.
How to remove strikethrough in Google Docs
To remove strikethrough, select the crossed-out text again and use the same shortcut.
On Windows:
Alt + Shift + 5
On Mac:
Command + Shift + X
You can also remove it from the menu by going to Format > Text > Strikethrough again.
Extra tips
Strikethrough is useful when editing a document because it lets you show deleted or changed text without completely removing it.
It can also be helpful for simple checklists. For example, you can cross out completed tasks while still keeping them visible in the document.
If the shortcut does not work, make sure your cursor is inside Google Docs and that the text is selected first.
FAQ
What is the shortcut for strikethrough in Google Docs?
On Windows, use Alt + Shift + 5.
On Mac, use Command + Shift + X.
Can I remove strikethrough with the same shortcut?
Yes. Select the crossed-out text and press the same shortcut again.
Where is strikethrough in the Google Docs menu?
You can find it under Format > Text > Strikethrough.
Is strikethrough the same as deleting text?
No. Deleting text removes it completely. Strikethrough keeps the text visible but puts a line through it.