top of page

The Strikethrough Shortcut for Word, Excel & PowerPoint

Writer's picture: CodeMasters MarketingCodeMasters Marketing

Updated: 1 day ago

Black and Cream Strikethrough

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!


If you’re looking for more ways to improve efficiency, check out our guide on essential tools for a successful business. And if you work with digital content, you may also find how often you should update your website helpful.



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.

word striketrhough Using the Toolbar

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.

strikethough command for mac

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.

Strikethrough for word Using the Font Dialog Box

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.

 Excel Strikethrough shortcut (Mac & PC)
Credit: Nuts & bolts Speed Training

Using the Format Cells Dialog Box

  1. Select the cell you want to modify.

  2. Press Ctrl + 1 to open the Format Cells dialog box.

  3. Go to the Font tab, check the Strikethrough box, and click OK.

Excel strikethrough shortcut using your Format Cells
Credit: Nuts & bolts Speed Training

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.

powerpoint strikethough Using the Toolbar
Credit: fppt.com

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.

    showing shift command x commands on keyboard

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.


Related Articles

To dive deeper into enhancing your content and website management, check out these helpful posts:



These resources will help you make the most of your digital strategy while keeping your content optimized and professional!

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.


If you’re looking for expert support with your digital projects—whether it’s web design, SEO, or tailored business solutions—CodeMasters is here to help. Let’s bring your vision to life! Contact us today and discover how we can elevate your business.

bottom of page