Do you want to add a little flair to your emails? Maybe you want to emphasize a point or show that something has changed. Whatever the reason, knowing how to cross out text in Outlook can be a useful skill to have.
In this article, we’ll show you how to strikethrough text in Outlook and give you some tips on when and why you might want to use this text decoration.
What Does Strikethrough Text Mean?
Before we dive into how to cross out text in Outlook, let’s first understand what it means. Strikethrough text is a text decoration that puts a line through the middle of the text, indicating that it has been deleted or is no longer relevant.
This text decoration can be used for various purposes, such as showing that a price has been reduced, indicating that a task has been completed, or simply adding emphasis to a word or phrase.
How to Strikethrough Text in Outlook
Now that you know what strikethrough text means, let’s learn how to add it to your emails in Outlook.
Method 1: Using the Format Text Tab
The easiest way to cross out text in Outlook is by using the Format Text tab. Here’s how:
- Open Outlook and create a new email.
- Type out the text you want to strikethrough.
- Highlight the text you want to cross out.
- Go to the Format Text tab in the ribbon at the top of the screen.
- Click on the small arrow in the bottom right corner of the Font section.
- In the Font window that appears, check the box next to “Strikethrough” under Effects.
- Click “OK” to apply the strikethrough text decoration to your selected text.
Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts
If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, you can also use them to cross out text in Outlook. Here’s how:
- Open Outlook and create a new email.
- Type out the text you want to strikethrough.
- Highlight the text you want to cross out.
- Press “Ctrl” + “D” on your keyboard.
- This will open the Font window. Check the box next to “Strikethrough” under Effects.
- Press “Enter” or click “OK” to apply the strikethrough text decoration to your selected text.
When to Use Strikethrough Text in Outlook
Now that you know how to cross out text in Outlook, you may be wondering when and why you should use this text decoration. Here are a few situations where strikethrough text can come in handy:
Showing Changes or Updates
If you’re sending an email with updated information, you can use strikethrough text to show what has changed. For example, if you’re sending a price list and some prices have been reduced, you can cross out the old prices and add the new ones next to them.
This will make it clear to the recipient that the prices have changed and they can easily see the old and new prices side by side.
Emphasizing a Point
Sometimes, you may want to add emphasis to a word or phrase in your email. Instead of using bold or italics, you can use strikethrough text to make the text stand out.
For example, if you’re trying to make a point about a particular feature of your product, you can strikethrough the alternative options and leave the one you want to highlight.
Indicating a Task Has Been Completed
If you’re working on a project with a team and you want to show that a task has been completed, you can use strikethrough text to cross out the task from the list. This will make it clear to everyone that the task has been completed and they can move on to the next one.
Tips for Using Strikethrough Text in Outlook
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using strikethrough text in Outlook:
Don’t Overuse It
While strikethrough text can be a useful tool, it’s important not to overuse it. Using it too often can make your emails look cluttered and unprofessional. Only use it when necessary and make sure it adds value to your message.
Use It Consistently
If you’re using strikethrough text to show changes or updates, make sure you use it consistently throughout your email. This will make it easier for the recipient to understand the changes and see the old and new information side by side.
Use It Sparingly in Formal Emails
If you’re sending a formal email, it’s best to use strikethrough text sparingly. While it can be useful in certain situations, it may not be appropriate for all types of emails. Use your judgment and only use it if it adds value to your message.
Alternatives to Strikethrough Text in Outlook
If you’re looking for alternatives to strikethrough text in Outlook, here are a few options you can consider:
Using Bold or Italics
If you want to add emphasis to a word or phrase, you can use bold or italics instead of strikethrough text. This will make the text stand out without crossing it out.
Using Highlighting
Another way to draw attention to a particular word or phrase is by highlighting it. This will make the text stand out without crossing it out or making it bold.
Using Different Font Colors
If you want to add some color to your emails, you can use different font colors instead of strikethrough text. This will make the text stand out without crossing it out or making it bold.
In Conclusion
Knowing how to cross out text in Outlook can be a useful skill to have. Whether you want to show changes or updates, emphasize a point, or indicate a task has been completed, strikethrough text can help you achieve your goal.
Remember to use it sparingly and consistently, and consider alternatives if it doesn’t fit the tone of your email. With these tips in mind, you can add some flair to your emails and make your messages more effective.
