Finding strikethrough in Excel is straightforward once you know where to look. This guide walks you through multiple paths to apply, remove, and customize strikethrough formatting quickly.
Below is a summary of the most useful methods, keyboard shortcuts, and where each approach fits into your workflow.
| Method | Steps | Best For | Shortcut |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Ribbon Font Group | Select cell(s) → Home → Font group → Strikethrough icon | Quick one-off formatting | Ctrl+5 |
| Font Dialog Box | Select cell(s) → Home → Font dialog launcher → Strikethrough checkbox → OK | Combined formatting control | Ctrl+Shift+F |
| Format Cells Dialog | Right-click → Format Cells → Font → Strikethrough → OK | Detailed font settings | Ctrl+1 then M |
| Custom Keyboard Shortcut | Assign a new shortcut in Excel Options → Quick Access Toolbar | Frequent use & personalization | User-defined |
Applying Strikethrough Using the Home Ribbon
The Home tab provides the fastest visual access to the Strikethrough toggle. Locate the Font group, and click the Strikethrough icon to add or remove the line.
Using the Strikethrough Icon
Select the cell or range, then click the icon to apply or remove the formatting instantly. The icon looks like a small line through multiple letters.
Ribbon Tips for Consistent Results
Turn on Format Painter to copy strikethrough across rows, or use Ctrl+1 to open Format Cells directly from the Ribbon for batch updates.
Keyboard Shortcut for Strikethrough
Keyboard shortcuts speed up repetitive formatting tasks. The default shortcut for strikethrough in Excel is Ctrl+5, which toggles the line through selected text.
Selecting Cells First
Before pressing the shortcut, ensure the correct cells are active or selected. This prevents accidental edits in the wrong location.
Adding the Shortcut to Quick Access Toolbar
If you prefer a dedicated button, add the Strikethrough command to the Quick Access Toolbar for one-click access without memorizing keys. p>
Using Format Cells Dialog for Strikethrough
The Format Cells dialog gives precise control over font effects, including strikethrough, underlines, and color settings.
Opening the Dialog
Right-click the selection and choose Format Cells, or press Ctrl+1. Navigate to the Font tab to find the Strikethrough checkbox.
Combining Effects
Use this method to stack bold, italic, underline, and strikethrough in one step, ensuring a consistent look across reports.
Customizing Strikethrough with Styles and Templates
For larger projects, define a cell style that includes strikethrough so you can apply it consistently across sheets.
Creating a Custom Style
In the Styles gallery, create a new style, enable Strikethrough, and save. Apply the style with a single click or shortcut.
Managing Styles Across Workbooks
Modify base templates or use the Organizer to copy styles between workbooks, reducing repetitive formatting work.
Optimizing Your Use of Strikethrough in Excel
Use these practices to keep your spreadsheets clean, consistent, and easy to update.
- Use Ctrl+5 as your default toggle for fast on/off strikethrough.
- Apply cell styles instead of manual formatting for large datasets.
- Leverage Format Painter to mirror formatting across related sections.
- Check print preview to ensure strikethrough displays clearly on paper.
- Combine bold and color with strikethrough for high visibility.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I quickly toggle strikethrough on multiple cells?
Select the cells and press Ctrl+5 to toggle strikethrough on or off in one step.
Can I assign my own shortcut to strikethrough?
Yes, add Strikethrough to the Quick Access Toolbar and then assign a custom keyboard shortcut in Excel Options.
Why does Ctrl+5 not work for strikethrough on my computer?
Check your keyboard layout or add-ins that may override shortcuts, or use the Home Ribbon or Format Cells as an alternative.
How do I copy strikethrough formatting to other cells?
Use Format Painter or create a custom cell style with strikethrough applied for consistent reuse.