Ever typed something and then changed your mind, but still kind of want it visible? Enter the strikethrough feature! It’s a handy way to cross out words without deleting them. This little line can do big things—like marking completed tasks or making sarcastic jokes pop. Ready to become a strikethrough shortcut ninja? Let’s go!
TL;DR
Using strikethrough in Microsoft Office is super easy. In Word and Outlook, just press Ctrl + D to open the font dialog, then hit Alt + K. In Excel, use Ctrl + 5 for a quick strike. There’s even a button on the ribbon if clicking is more your style. Easy peasy!
Why Use Strikethrough Anyway?
Strikethrough isn’t just for crossing things off. It can be:
- Fun – Add humor or sarcasm (“Best boss ever ~not~.”)
- Helpful – Show edits without deleting the original text
- Organized – Mark tasks as done in lists
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it!
Strikethrough in Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is full of tricks, and strikethrough is one of the easiest to master. Here’s how to add that stylish line right through your words!
Keyboard Shortcut
This is the fastest way:
- Highlight the text you want to strike through.
- Press Ctrl + D. A Font dialog box pops up.
- Then press Alt + K.
- Hit Enter.
Presto! Your text now looks like it got a cool makeover.
The Ribbon Method
Prefer clicking around? No worries!
- Highlight the text again.
- Go to the Home tab up top.
- Look for the strikethrough icon—it’s the letter abc with a line through it.
- Click it. Done!
Strikethrough in Microsoft Excel
Yes, spreadsheet warriors—Excel’s got your back too.
Quick Keyboard Combo
This one’s a breeze:
- Select the cell or part of the text in a cell.
- Press Ctrl + 5.
Zap! A line appears through your text instantly. Want to remove it? Hit Ctrl + 5 again.
Using Right-Click (For Clickers!)
- Right-click the cell.
- Choose Format Cells.
- Go to the Font tab.
- Check the Strikethrough box.
- Click OK.
Takes a bit longer, but does the trick nicely.
Strikethrough in Microsoft Outlook
Yes, even emails can enjoy the magic!
Keyboard Style
- Compose a new email or reply to one.
- Select your target text.
- Press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box (just like in Word).
- Press Alt + K, then hit Enter.
Perfect when you change your mind mid-sentence in a dramatic flair.
Click Your Way There
- Select the text in your email.
- Click the Format Text tab.
- Click the Strikethrough icon.
Click, boom, and your text is crossed.
How to Customize the Strikethrough (Bonus Round!)
Want quicker access? Here’s a pro tip: Add strikethrough to your Quick Access Toolbar!
- Click the tiny dropdown arrow at the top-left corner (above File).
- Select More Commands.
- Find Strikethrough under the “All Commands” list.
- Click Add, then hit OK.
Now it’s just one click away, forever.
What About Mobile?
Using Office on your phone or tablet? Strikethrough is still possible!
On Word or Outlook Mobile
- Tap the text you want to edit.
- Look for the toolbar at the bottom or top (depends on the app).
- Swipe through formatting options till you see abc with a line.
- Tap it. Magic happens!
Note: Not all features are available on all devices. Sometimes you’ll need the premium version.
Tips and Tricks
- Undo strikethrough? Hit Ctrl + Z.
- Use it in To-Do Lists inside Word or OneNote to mark progress.
- Strikethrough doesn’t delete text—it just hides it in a cooler way.
- Combine bold, italic, and strikethrough for dramatic effect!
Common Mistakes
Not everything is sunshine and keyboard shortcuts. Don’t fall into these traps:
- Trying Ctrl + 5 in Word—it won’t work. That one’s for Excel!
- Striking blank space—you won’t see anything!
- Forgetting to highlight the text before hitting the shortcuts
Quick Recap
- Word & Outlook: Ctrl + D, then Alt + K
- Excel: Ctrl + 5
- Ribbon Tools: Home tab → Strikethrough icon
Try it out now on some sample text! Strike through something silly just for fun.
Final Thoughts
The strikethrough shortcut is more than just a formatting trick. It’s a way to show progress, personality, and make your work stand out. Whether it’s crossing off tasks or adding sass to your writing, it’s a tool worth having in your arsenal. Happy editing!
