How to Strikethrough Text: Keyboard Shortcuts for a Variety of Platforms
Have you ever wanted to emphasize a word or phrase by striking it through? Perhaps you need to show something is incorrect, or want to highlight a deleted section of text. Whatever the reason, the strikethrough effect can be achieved easily with the help of keyboard shortcuts.
While the exact shortcut can vary depending on your operating system and text editor, the most common approach involves using a combination of "Alt" and a specific key. Let's explore some of the popular platforms and their respective shortcuts.
Microsoft Word
For those using Microsoft Word, the strikethrough effect is conveniently implemented with a simple keyboard shortcut. Follow these steps:
- Select the text you wish to strikethrough.
- Press "Alt" and "Shift" simultaneously, followed by "5" on the numeric keypad (not the top row numbers).
This shortcut will instantly strikethrough the selected text, adding a line through it.
Google Docs
Google Docs, a cloud-based document editor, also provides a straightforward way to apply the strikethrough effect. Simply:
- Select the text you want to strikethrough.
- Press "Ctrl" and "Shift" together, then "X".
This shortcut will achieve the desired strikethrough effect on your text within Google Docs.
Other Text Editors
While the "Alt" and "Shift" combination is common, some text editors might employ different shortcuts. For instance, in Notepad, a basic text editor included with Windows, the strikethrough effect is not directly supported. However, you can achieve a similar effect by using the "~ (tilde)" symbol before and after the text you want to strikethrough.
Other editors might use combinations like "Ctrl" and "~" or "Alt" and "~" for the strikethrough effect. It's best to consult the editor's documentation or help resources for specific instructions.
Online Platforms and Social Media
Even online platforms and social media sites like Twitter, Facebook, and Reddit offer ways to apply the strikethrough effect. While they may not have dedicated keyboard shortcuts, they often provide a visual method:
- Markdown (often used in Reddit and some platforms): Inserting the "~~" (double tilde) symbols before and after the text will result in strikethrough formatting.
Remember to Experiment!
While these shortcuts are widely used, there might be variations or alternative methods available. Don't hesitate to experiment with different key combinations or consult the specific platform's documentation for the most accurate instructions.
Conclusion
Knowing the right keyboard shortcut for strikethrough can be a valuable skill, especially for anyone who frequently uses text editors or online platforms. By understanding these shortcuts and applying them effectively, you can easily enhance your text formatting and make your documents more visually appealing and informative.