How to Strikethrough Text in Google Docs and Sheets

Strikethrough draws a line through text without deleting it. In Google Docs it can mark wording for removal; in Google Sheets it can mark completed tasks or inactive entries while preserving the original value.

Strikethrough in Google Sheets

Use the keyboard shortcut

1. Select one or more cells.
2. Press Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or Command + Shift + X on Mac.

Use the Format menu

Select the cells, then choose Format > Text > Strikethrough. Depending on the toolbar width, a strikethrough button may also be visible.

Strikethrough in Google Docs

Use the keyboard shortcut

Select the text, then press Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or Command + Shift + X on Mac.

Use the Format menu

Select the text and choose Format > Text > Strikethrough.

Remove strikethrough

Strikethrough is a toggle. Select the affected text or cells and repeat the same shortcut or menu command. If applying it was your most recent action, Undo also works.

If the shortcut does not work

• Confirm the text or cells are selected before pressing the keys.
• A browser, operating system, or extension may intercept the shortcut; use the Format menu instead.
• On mobile, select the text or cell and use the app's formatting controls; the exact menu can vary by platform.

For more editing shortcuts and version-control practices, see these Google Docs tips. If you are comparing editors, review Google Docs versus Word Online.