
Strikethrough formatting is a handy tool that lets you draw a line through text without deleting it. Whether you're editing a document, tracking tasks, or revising a presentation, knowing how to strike through text in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint can save you time and effort. This guide simplifies the process with step-by-step instructions and practical examples. Let’s dive in!
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How to Strike Through in Word
Microsoft Word offers several ways to strike through text, making it a go-to tool for writers, editors, and everyday users.
Example Use Case
Imagine you're editing a draft and want to show text that you plan to remove, like this:
The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Using the Toolbar
Highlight the text you want to strike through. Navigate to the Home tab and click the strikethrough button (look for "abc" with a line through it). The text will instantly appear crossed out.

Using a Shortcut
Windows: Highlight the text and press Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box. Then press Alt then H then 4, sequently, to apply strikethrough. Hit Enter to confirm.
Mac: Select the text and press Command + Shift + X. This shortcut applies strikethrough formatting immediately.

Using the Font Dialog Box
Right-click on the selected text and choose Font, or press Ctrl + D. In the Font settings, check the box next to Strikethrough and click OK.

For more detailed instructions, check out Adobe's guide on placing a strikethrough in Word.
How to Strike Through in Excel
Strikethrough in Excel is especially useful for managing lists, such as tracking completed tasks or marking old data in a spreadsheet.
Example Use Case
Let’s say you have a list of completed tasks in an Excel sheet, and you want to visually mark them as done:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Using a Shortcut Select the cell or the specific text within a cell. Press Ctrl + 5 (Windows and Mac) to toggle strikethrough formatting on or off.

Using the Format Cells Dialog Box
Select the cell you want to modify.
Press Ctrl + 1 to open the Format Cells dialog box.
Go to the Font tab, check the Strikethrough box, and click OK.

For more tips and shortcuts, visit Shortcut Killer’s guide to Excel strikethrough.
How to Strike Through in PowerPoint
Adding a strikethrough in PowerPoint is perfect for revising slides or emphasizing edits during a presentation.
Example Use Case
You’re revising a sales deck and want to show which points have been updated:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Using the Toolbar
Highlight the text on the slide. Navigate to the Home tab and click the strikethrough button in the Font section.

Using a Shortcut
Windows: Highlight the text, press Alt, then H, then 4 sequentially to apply strikethrough formatting.
Mac: Highlight the text and press Command + Shift + X.
Using the Font Dialog Box
Select the text and press Ctrl + T (Windows) to open the Font dialog box. Check the Strikethrough option and click OK.
For a deep dive into PowerPoint strikethrough shortcuts, explore Nuts & Bolts Speed Training’s tutorial.
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Wrapping It Up: Strikethrough Shortcuts
Strikethrough formatting is a simple yet powerful feature that can enhance your productivity in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Whether you're tracking edits, managing tasks, or revising presentations, these shortcuts and tips will help you work smarter and faster.
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