Google Docs applies strikethrough through Format > Text > Strikethrough, or with Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows and Command + Shift + X on Mac. Microsoft Word does the same from the Home tab with the strikethrough button, or with Alt, H, 4 on Windows. Both tools make crossed-out text simple, but they handle editing, collaboration, shortcuts, and document control in very different ways.
TLDR: Google Docs is faster for shared editing because comments, suggestions, and strikethrough changes appear instantly for every collaborator. Microsoft Word is stronger for formal documents, legal drafts, and heavy formatting. For example, a 10-person marketing team reviewing a 14-page campaign brief may save 20 to 30 minutes by using Google Docs Suggesting mode instead of emailing Word files back and forth. Strikethrough works well in both, but the better choice depends on whether speed or control matters more.
How to Strikethrough in Google Docs
Strikethrough in Google Docs is used to cross out text without deleting it. Editors use it for old prices, rejected ideas, replaced wording, expired dates, and task lists. It shows that a phrase is no longer active while keeping it visible for context.
To apply strikethrough in Google Docs:
- Select the word, sentence, or paragraph.
- Click Format in the top menu.
- Choose Text.
- Select Strikethrough.
The faster method is the keyboard shortcut:
- Windows or ChromeOS: Alt + Shift + 5
- Mac: Command + Shift + X
To remove strikethrough, the same command is used again. The text stays selected, and Google Docs toggles the effect off.
When Strikethrough Helps Most
Strikethrough is not just decoration. It is a practical editing signal. A project manager may write Send first draft Friday and replace it with Send first draft Monday. A teacher may cross out a weak phrase and leave a better version beside it. A contract reviewer may mark an outdated clause without removing evidence of the original wording.
It works best when the team needs to see what changed but does not need a full audit trail. For heavier review, Google Docs Suggesting mode is better. In that mode, deleted text appears crossed out automatically, and new text appears as a suggestion. That is cleaner than manually applying strikethrough to every edit.
Google Docs vs Microsoft Word: Strikethrough Basics
Both Google Docs and Microsoft Word support strikethrough. Both make it easy to apply. The difference is where each tool shines.
| Feature | Google Docs | Microsoft Word |
|---|---|---|
| Basic strikethrough | Format > Text > Strikethrough | Home tab > Strikethrough button |
| Windows shortcut | Alt + Shift + 5 | Alt, H, 4 |
| Mac shortcut | Command + Shift + X | Command + Shift + X in many versions |
| Double strikethrough | Not built in | Available through Font settings |
| Best use | Live team edits | Polished, complex documents |
How to Strikethrough in Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word keeps strikethrough in the Font section of the Home tab. The process is simple:
- Select the text.
- Open the Home tab.
- Click the abc strikethrough icon in the Font group.
Word also offers double strikethrough, which Google Docs does not include as a normal formatting option. To use it, the editor opens the Font dialog box and checks Double strikethrough. This is useful in legal, academic, or publishing work where different levels of deletion need to stand out.
The annoying part is speed. Word has strong tools, but some formatting actions still feel buried. A simple double strikethrough can take several clicks, while Google Docs keeps the basic version close to the main menu.
Editing Documents in Google Docs
Google Docs is built for shared work. Multiple people can edit the same file at the same time. Comments appear in the margin. Suggestions can be accepted or rejected. Version history shows who changed what and when.
For teams, this feels lighter than passing files around. Nobody has to ask, “Which version is final?” That question alone can waste hours during busy review cycles.
Google Docs has three main editing modes:
- Editing: Changes are made directly.
- Suggesting: Changes appear as recommendations, often with crossed-out deleted text.
- Viewing: The document can be read but not changed.
Honestly, it feels like Google Docs was made for people tired of version names such as Final Draft V7 Real Final.docx. Its strength is shared review, not advanced page design.
Editing Documents in Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is still the stronger tool for dense formatting. It handles long reports, footnotes, citations, page breaks, section breaks, indexes, and complex styles with more depth than Google Docs. For legal teams, researchers, book editors, and corporate departments, that control matters.
Word also has Track Changes. When enabled, deleted text can appear with strikethrough, while inserted text appears underlined or colored, depending on settings. Reviewers can accept or reject edits one by one. This makes Word excellent for formal review.
The catch is file handling. If a team works outside Microsoft 365 or OneDrive, version confusion can creep in fast. Email attachments multiply. Someone edits an old copy. Another person merges the wrong file. Expect to waste time on cleanup when the process is not strict.
Which Tool Is Better for Strikethrough?
For basic strikethrough, the two tools are nearly equal. Google Docs is faster for casual edits and team review. Word is better when the document must follow exact formatting rules.
Google Docs is the better choice when:
- Several people need to edit at once.
- The document is mostly text.
- Comments and suggestions matter more than layout control.
- The team wants browser-based access.
Microsoft Word is the better choice when:
- The document has complex formatting.
- Double strikethrough is needed.
- Track Changes must follow formal review rules.
- The final file must be a precise printed or PDF document.
Manual Strikethrough vs Suggested Edits
Manual strikethrough is best for visible notes. It says, “This was considered, but it is no longer current.” Suggested edits are better for review. They allow another person to accept or reject the change.
For example, a content editor may manually strike cheap software and replace it with affordable software during a brainstorming session. During final review, the same editor should use Suggesting mode or Track Changes, so the author can approve the change.
Common Strikethrough Mistakes
- Using strikethrough instead of deletion: If the old text no longer helps, it should be removed.
- Overusing crossed-out text: Too much of it makes a page hard to read.
- Mixing manual strikethrough with tracked edits: This can confuse reviewers.
- Forgetting accessibility: Screen readers may not always announce formatting clearly.
A strong rule is simple: use strikethrough for context, not clutter. If the crossed-out wording does not help the reader, delete it or move it to a comment.
FAQ
How does someone strikethrough text in Google Docs?
The text is selected, then Format > Text > Strikethrough is chosen. The shortcut is Alt + Shift + 5 on Windows or ChromeOS and Command + Shift + X on Mac.
Can Google Docs do double strikethrough?
Google Docs does not offer built-in double strikethrough. Microsoft Word supports it through the Font settings.
Is strikethrough the same as Suggesting mode?
No. Strikethrough is manual formatting. Suggesting mode is an editing feature that shows proposed deletions and insertions for approval.
Does Microsoft Word have a strikethrough shortcut?
Yes. On Windows, Alt, H, 4 activates strikethrough from the ribbon. On many Mac versions, Command + Shift + X works.
Which is better for editing, Google Docs or Microsoft Word?
Google Docs is better for live collaboration. Microsoft Word is better for complex formatting, formal review, and print-ready documents.
