how to add strikethrough in excel
Adding strikethrough in Excel is straightforward. You can use the format cells feature or a keyboard shortcut to achieve this. The format cells method offers more control and options, while the keyboard shortcut is quick and efficient. Read on to learn how to add strikethrough in Excel using both methods.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Add Strikethrough in Excel
In this section, we’ll walk through the steps to add strikethrough to your text in Excel. Whether you’re using the format cells menu or a handy keyboard shortcut, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Select the cell or text you want to strikethrough
Click on the cell or highlight the specific text within a cell that you want to apply the strikethrough effect to.
Make sure to be precise when selecting the text. If you want to strikethrough an entire cell, just click on it. For part of the text, double-click the cell and highlight the specific part.
Step 2: Open the Format Cells dialog box
Right-click on the selected cell and choose "Format Cells" from the context menu that appears.
This brings up a dialog box where you can access several formatting options, including the strikethrough feature.
Step 3: Navigate to the Font tab
In the Format Cells dialog box, click on the "Font" tab to access text formatting options.
Here, you’ll find various styling options for your text, including font type, size, color, and effects.
Step 4: Check the Strikethrough option
Within the Font tab, locate and check the "Strikethrough" checkbox.
After checking the box, you should see a preview of your text with the strikethrough applied in the preview section of the dialog box.
Step 5: Click OK to apply
Click the "OK" button to apply the strikethrough formatting to your selected text.
Your text or cell should now display with a strikethrough line. The change is instant, and you can always go back to modify or remove the strikethrough if needed.
Step 6: Use a keyboard shortcut (optional)
For a faster method, use the keyboard shortcut: press Ctrl + 5 (Windows) or Command + Shift + X (Mac) after selecting the cell or text.
This shortcut quickly toggles the strikethrough effect on and off without going through the dialog box menu.
By completing these steps, the selected text or cell in your Excel worksheet will have a strikethrough effect, making it appear crossed out.
Tips for How to Add Strikethrough in Excel
- Quick Access Toolbar: You can add the strikethrough option to your Quick Access Toolbar for even faster access.
- Conditional Formatting: Use conditional formatting rules to apply strikethrough automatically based on cell values.
- Multiple Cells: Apply strikethrough to multiple cells simultaneously by selecting a range of cells before using the format cells dialog or keyboard shortcut.
- Custom Styles: Create a custom cell style that includes strikethrough so you can apply it with one click.
- Review Changes: Use strikethrough to mark completed tasks or reviewed items in your Excel checklist or project tracker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove the strikethrough easily?
Yes, you can remove the strikethrough by selecting the cell, opening the Format Cells dialog, and unchecking the Strikethrough option, or using the keyboard shortcut again.
Does strikethrough affect cell values?
No, the strikethrough is purely a visual formatting change and does not affect the actual cell values or calculations.
Can I use strikethrough in Excel Online?
Yes, you can use strikethrough in Excel Online by selecting the text and clicking on the "Strikethrough" button in the Home tab or using the keyboard shortcut.
Will strikethrough appear when printing?
Yes, any strikethrough formatting applied in Excel will appear on printed documents, just as it appears on your screen.
Is there a strikethrough option in Excel mobile app?
As of my knowledge cutoff date, the Excel mobile app does not have a direct strikethrough option, but changes made on a desktop version will reflect correctly.
Summary
- Step 1: Select the cell or text.
- Step 2: Open the Format Cells dialog box.
- Step 3: Navigate to the Font tab.
- Step 4: Check the Strikethrough option.
- Step 5: Click OK to apply.
- Step 6: Use a keyboard shortcut (optional).
Conclusion
Adding strikethrough in Excel is a simple but powerful way to manage your data more effectively. Whether you’re tracking tasks, marking off completed items, or simply organizing information, the strikethrough feature can help keep your worksheets clear and easy to read.
Remember, you have options: use the format cells dialog for more control or the keyboard shortcut for speed. Don’t forget to explore other tips like adding strikethrough to your Quick Access Toolbar or using conditional formatting for automatic application. These small tricks can save you time and make your workflow smoother.
If you found this guide useful, don’t hesitate to share it with colleagues or friends who might benefit. Happy Excelling!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.