Removing a strikethrough (line through) from text in Excel is a straightforward process. You need to select the text, access the Format Cells dialog box, and then uncheck the Strikethrough option. This guide will walk you through each step, so you can easily remove that pesky line from your text and keep your spreadsheet clean and professional.
How to Remove Line Through Text in Excel
Here’s a detailed guide to help you remove the line through text in Excel. We’ll go through each step to ensure you understand exactly what to do.
Step 1: Open Your Excel Spreadsheet
Make sure your Excel sheet is open and the text you want to modify is visible.
Having your file open is the first step. Ensure that the text you need to edit is accessible, so you don’t waste time scrolling through vast amounts of data.
Step 2: Select the Cell(s) with the Strikethrough Text
Click on the cell or cells containing the strikethrough.
Selecting the cell is simple: just click on it. If multiple cells have the strikethrough, click and drag to select all of them at once.
Step 3: Right-Click and Choose Format Cells
Right-click on the selected cells and choose the "Format Cells" option from the context menu.
Right-clicking opens up a context menu with various options. "Format Cells" is your gateway to modifying text formatting.
Step 4: Navigate to the Font Tab
In the Format Cells dialog box, go to the Font tab.
This tab contains all the settings related to text appearance, including font style, size, and effects like strikethrough.
Step 5: Uncheck the Strikethrough Option
In the Font tab, uncheck the Strikethrough checkbox.
The Strikethrough checkbox is usually located below the font style options. Simply uncheck it to remove the line through your text.
Step 6: Click OK to Apply Changes
Click the OK button to apply the changes and close the dialog box.
Clicking OK confirms your changes. Your text should now be free of the strikethrough.
Once you follow these steps, the strikethrough line will be removed from your text. Your document will look cleaner and more professional, making it easier for others to read your data.
Tips for Removing Line Through Text in Excel
- Double-check the selected cells to ensure you’re editing the correct ones.
- You can use keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl+1) to open the Format Cells dialog box faster.
- If you frequently use strikethrough, consider customizing your toolbar for quick access.
- Remember that changes apply to the entire cell, so be cautious if the cell contains multiple text styles.
- Practice a few times to get comfortable with the steps, making future edits quicker.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply strikethrough in Excel?
You can apply strikethrough by selecting the cell, right-clicking, choosing Format Cells, navigating to the Font tab, and checking the Strikethrough option.
Can I use a keyboard shortcut to remove strikethrough?
Yes, you can use Ctrl+1 to open the Format Cells dialog box quickly and then uncheck the Strikethrough option.
Does removing strikethrough affect other formatting?
No, it only removes the line through the text. Other formatting like font size and color remains unchanged.
Can I remove strikethrough from multiple cells at once?
Yes, you can select multiple cells and follow the same steps to remove strikethrough from all selected cells.
What if I accidentally format the wrong cells?
You can undo the action by pressing Ctrl+Z immediately after the change. Alternatively, you can reselect the correct cells and remove the strikethrough again.
Summary
- Open your Excel spreadsheet.
- Select the cell(s) with the strikethrough text.
- Right-click and choose Format Cells.
- Navigate to the Font tab.
- Uncheck the Strikethrough option.
- Click OK to apply changes.
Conclusion
Removing a line through text in Excel is a simple yet essential skill that ensures your spreadsheets remain clear and professional. Whether you’re dealing with a small data set or a massive spreadsheet, knowing how to quickly adjust text formatting can save you time and hassle.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily remove strikethroughs from your text. Practicing these steps will make you more efficient and confident in managing your Excel documents. If you find yourself frequently needing to adjust text formatting, consider customizing your Excel toolbar for even quicker access.
For further reading, explore Excel’s other text formatting options to fully harness the power of this versatile tool. And remember, a well-formatted spreadsheet not only looks good but also enhances readability and comprehension. So, keep practicing and keep your spreadsheets looking sharp!

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.