Adding a strikethrough to the Excel ribbon streamlines your review workflow and keeps tracked changes visible without extra tools. This approach helps teams mark outdated figures or obsolete items directly in the user interface.
You can integrate this formatting into your standard ribbon setup so it appears alongside Home, Insert, and Review tabs. The steps below show where to find the controls and how to customize your workspace efficiently.
| Feature | Location in Excel Ribbon | Shortcut | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strikethrough | Home tab > Font group | Ctrl+5 | Mark completed tasks or obsolete data |
| Bold | Home tab > Font group | Ctrl+B | Emphasize key labels or headers |
| Underline | Home tab > Font group | Ctrl+U | Highlight important references |
| Custom Ribbon | File > Options > Customize Ribbon | — | Add missing commands like strikethrough |
Modify the Ribbon to Show Strikethrough
Many default Excel installations hide advanced font options behind overflow menus. By adjusting the ribbon, you ensure the strikethrough button is always one click away.
Open File > Options > Customize Ribbon, then choose Main Tabs or create a custom tab. This central location lets you add, remove, or reposition commands without searching through submenus.
After customization, the new or updated command stays visible on the ribbon until you change it again. Consistent access reduces clicks and keeps formatting fast during data audits.
Quick Access Toolbar as an Alternative
If you prefer direct access, add strikethrough to the Quick Access Toolbar above the ribbon. This method works regardless of which tab is currently selected.
Click the drop-down arrow next to the Quick Access Toolbar, choose More Commands, then select Strikethrough from the list. The button appears in the toolbar immediately and remains available in all worksheet views.
This approach is ideal for users who rely heavily on keyboard-like efficiency without switching between ribbon tabs.
Using the Format Cells Dialog
For precise control, use the Format Cells dialog to combine strikethrough with other font styles. This method is helpful when you need to apply multiple formats at once.
Open the dialog with Ctrl+1, go to the Font tab, and check Strikethrough alongside Bold or Italic. You can also change color, underline style, and font size in the same panel.
Applying formats through the dialog ensures consistency across selected ranges and reduces repetitive clicking during complex formatting tasks.
Keyboard Shortcuts and Automation
Mastering keyboard shortcuts accelerates repetitive formatting, especially in large spreadsheets with many entries to mark as completed.
Use Ctrl+5 to toggle strikethrough on or off instantly. If you prefer macros, record a small routine that applies the format and assign it to a custom shortcut or button.
Automating this process with VBA is helpful when you need to apply strikethrough across multiple sheets or as part of a larger reporting workflow.
Optimize Your Excel Ribbon for Long-Term Efficiency
Regularly refining your ribbon layout keeps high-frequency commands like strikethrough within immediate reach.
Group related formatting options, remove unused buttons, and leverage custom tabs for specific projects to reduce navigation time.
These adjustments help maintain a focused workspace that supports accuracy and speed during daily spreadsheet tasks.
- Open File > Options > Customize Ribbon to manage tab visibility
- Add Strikethrough to the Home tab or a custom tab for quick access
- Use Ctrl+5 as a fast keyboard shortcut to apply or remove strikethrough
- Place Strikethrough in the Quick Access Toolbar for cross-tab availability
- Combine strikethrough with other font formats through Format Cells for precise styling
FAQ
Reader questions
Why is my strikethrough button missing from the Home tab?
It may be hidden in the overflow menu. Customize the ribbon in File > Options > Customize Ribbon and add Strikethrough to the Home tab font group to make it always visible.
Can I assign a shortcut other than Ctrl+5 for strikethrough?
Yes. Create a macro that applies Application.CommandObjects("&Strikethrough").Execute, assign it to a key combination in Macro options, and use that shortcut across your workbooks.
Will adding strikethrough to the ribbon affect file size or performance?
No. Adding the command only changes the ribbon layout. It does not increase file size, slow calculations, or affect how Excel processes data.
How do I remove strikethrough from the ribbon if I no longer need it?
Return to File > Options > Customize Ribbon, locate Strikethrough, and remove it from the tab or toolbar. The change takes effect immediately and keeps your interface clean.