How to Use the Keyboard Shortcut for Strikethrough in Google Docs
Strikethrough text is a powerful formatting tool that allows you to show deleted or updated content while keeping it visible for reference. Whether you're revising documents, editing content, or simply highlighting changes, mastering the keyboard shortcut for strikethrough in Google Docs can streamline your workflow and enhance your productivity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to apply strikethrough formatting using a keyboard shortcut in Google Docs.
1. Open Your Google Docs Document
First, ensure you have your Google Docs document open and ready for editing. If you haven’t started a document yet, you can create a new one by navigating to Google Docs and clicking on the "Blank" document option or selecting a template that suits your needs.
2. Select the Text You Want to Strike Through
Highlight the text you wish to apply the strikethrough effect to. You can do this by clicking and dragging your mouse over the text or by holding down the Shift key while using the arrow keys on your keyboard.
3. Apply the Strikethrough Shortcut
Here’s the magic moment—applying the strikethrough formatting using the keyboard shortcut. The specific shortcut depends on your operating system:
- For Windows and Chrome OS: Press Alt + Shift + 5.
- For Mac: Press Command + Shift + X.
Simply press the combination of keys for your operating system, and you’ll see the selected text appear with a line through it.
4. Review Your Document
After applying the strikethrough formatting, review your document to ensure that the changes appear as intended. If you need to adjust the formatting or remove the strikethrough, you can use the same keyboard shortcut to toggle the effect on and off.
5. Save Your Changes
Make sure to save your document regularly to avoid losing any changes. Google Docs typically saves your work automatically, but it’s always good practice to confirm that your latest changes are saved.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use the strikethrough shortcut on mobile devices?
A1: Unfortunately, the keyboard shortcut for strikethrough does not work on mobile devices. To apply strikethrough on Google Docs mobile app, you need to use the formatting menu. Tap the "A" icon with a pencil, select the formatting option, and then choose "Strikethrough."
Q2: Is there a way to customize keyboard shortcuts in Google Docs?
A2: Google Docs does not currently offer the option to customize keyboard shortcuts. You will need to use the default shortcuts provided for formatting.
Q3: What if the keyboard shortcut doesn’t work?
A3: If the keyboard shortcut for strikethrough doesn’t work, make sure you are using the correct shortcut for your operating system. Ensure that your Google Docs document is active and that no other application or extension is conflicting with the shortcut.
Q4: Can I apply strikethrough formatting to entire paragraphs?
A4: Yes, you can apply strikethrough formatting to entire paragraphs by selecting the text within the paragraphs before using the keyboard shortcut.
Q5: How do I remove strikethrough formatting?
A5: To remove strikethrough formatting, simply select the text with the strikethrough effect and use the keyboard shortcut again. This will toggle the strikethrough formatting off.