Learning how to cross out text in google docs is useful when you want to show edits, mark completed items, or keep old wording visible without deleting it.
This formatting style is called strikethrough. It draws a line through selected words while leaving the text readable, which makes it helpful for collaboration, revision notes, and document cleanup.
Google Docs gives you several simple ways to apply it. You can use the menu, a keyboard shortcut, or mobile formatting tools depending on your device.
Once you know where the option lives, crossing out text becomes a quick part of editing instead of something you have to search for each time.
The fastest desktop method is to highlight the text you want to cross out, open the Format menu, choose Text, and select Strikethrough.
On Windows and Chromebooks, you can usually use Alt + Shift + 5 after selecting the text. On Mac, use Command + Shift + X.
If the shortcut does not work, check whether your browser or operating system is using the same keys for another command.
On mobile, open the Google Docs app, select the text, tap the formatting icon, and look for the strikethrough option in the text formatting controls.
You can remove strikethrough the same way you added it: select the crossed-out text and choose the same menu option or shortcut again.
What Is Strikethrough in Google Docs?
Basic Meaning
Strikethrough is a text effect that places a horizontal line through words, numbers, or phrases. It changes the appearance of the content without removing it from the document.
Why Writers Use It
Writers use strikethrough when they want to show that wording has been replaced, questioned, completed, or intentionally left visible for context.
How It Helps Editing
During editing, crossed-out text can show what changed while preserving the original idea. This is especially useful when several people are reviewing the same file.
Where It Appears
Strikethrough appears directly in the body of the document. It can be applied to a single letter, one word, a full sentence, or larger selected sections.
Difference From Deleting
Deleting removes text completely, while strikethrough keeps it visible. That makes it better when you need transparency or a record of earlier wording.
Common Use Cases
People often use it for to-do lists, draft revisions, pricing changes, meeting notes, and examples where old information should stay readable.
Steps to Cross Out Text Fast
1. Open your Google Docs file and place your cursor near the text you want to edit.
2. Highlight the exact word, sentence, or paragraph that should have a line through it.
3. Click Format in the top menu, then choose Text from the dropdown menu.
4. Select Strikethrough to apply the crossed-out style to the highlighted text.
5. Repeat the same action on selected crossed-out text if you want to remove the formatting.
Best Times to Use Strikethrough
- Completed tasks: Use strikethrough to mark finished checklist items while keeping the full list visible.
- Draft revisions: Cross out old wording when you want reviewers to see what changed during editing.
- Meeting notes: Apply it to decisions, ideas, or action items that are no longer active.
- Price changes: Use it to show an old price beside a new price in planning documents or drafts.
- Collaborative feedback: Mark text that may need removal without immediately deleting another person's contribution.
- Temporary notes: Cross out reminders or placeholders once they are handled but still useful for context.
Troubleshooting Strikethrough Issues
Shortcut Not Working
If the keyboard shortcut fails, try using the Format menu instead. Browser extensions, system shortcuts, or keyboard settings can sometimes interfere with Google Docs commands.
Wrong Text Selected
Strikethrough only applies to highlighted text or new text typed after the format is turned on. Recheck your selection before applying the effect.
Formatting Looks Inconsistent
If only part of a sentence appears crossed out, select the full section again and reapply the formatting. Mixed formatting often happens after copying and pasting text.
Mobile Menu Hard to Find
In the Google Docs mobile app, formatting options may be behind the underlined A icon or a text formatting panel. The layout can vary slightly by screen size.
Copied Text Keeps the Line
When you copy crossed-out text, the strikethrough may come with it. Use clear formatting if you want to paste the words without the line.
Shared Document Confusion
In shared files, collaborators may use strikethrough differently. Add a comment when the crossed-out text needs explanation or approval.
Printing and Exporting
Strikethrough usually remains visible when printing or exporting to PDF. Preview the document first if the formatting is important for a final version.
Crossing out text in Google Docs is a small formatting feature, but it can make editing and collaboration much clearer.
Use the Format menu when you want a reliable method, or use the keyboard shortcut when you need speed.
For shared work, strikethrough is most useful when it communicates a clear status: removed, completed, revised, or no longer current.
Once you practice it a few times, the process becomes a simple part of writing, reviewing, and organizing documents.
FAQs About how to cross out text in google docs
What is the shortcut for strikethrough in Google Docs?
On Windows and Chromebooks, select the text and press Alt + Shift + 5. On Mac, select the text and press Command + Shift + X.
Can I cross out text in the Google Docs app?
Yes, you can select text in the mobile app, open the formatting options, and choose the strikethrough style from the text controls.
How do I remove strikethrough in Google Docs?
Select the crossed-out text and use the same strikethrough command again from the Format menu or keyboard shortcut.
Does strikethrough delete the text?
No, strikethrough only changes how the text looks. The words remain in the document and can still be edited, copied, or restored.
Can I use strikethrough with other formatting?
Yes, strikethrough can be combined with bold, italic, underline, color, and other text styles in Google Docs.
Will strikethrough appear in a PDF export?
In most cases, yes. If you export or print the document, the crossed-out formatting should remain visible in the final file.