What is StrikeThrough in Outlook

Strikethrough text is a formatting option commonly used in email communications to indicate that specific content has been removed, canceled, or deemed irrelevant.

In Microsoft Outlook, the strikethrough feature allows users to visually mark text as deleted or no longer applicable, enhancing clarity and communication efficiency.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the meaning of strikethrough in Outlook, shortcuts for applying it, methods to add strikethrough to the toolbar, its significance, and much more.

What is Strikethrough in Outlook?

Strikethrough is a text formatting option in Microsoft Outlook that visually represents text with a horizontal line through its center. This formatting style is commonly used to indicate that the text has been deleted, canceled, or should be disregarded.

In Outlook, users can apply strikethrough formatting to individual words, phrases, or entire sentences within an email message.

Shortcut for Strikethrough in Outlook:

In Microsoft Outlook, the shortcut key combination for applying strikethrough formatting to selected text is:

• Ctrl + Shift + 5

Pressing these keys simultaneously will instantly apply the strikethrough effect to the selected text within an email message or other Outlook components like tasks or notes.

Adding Strikethrough to the Outlook Toolbar:

To add the strikethrough tool to the Outlook toolbar for quick and easy access, follow these steps:

1. Open Microsoft Outlook and create a new email message or open an existing one.
2. Click on the “Format Text” tab in the ribbon at the top of the window.
3. Right-click anywhere in the ribbon area and select “Customize the Ribbon” from the context menu.
4. In the “Customize the Ribbon” window, click on the “Commands Not in the Ribbon” option in the left-hand column.
5. Scroll down and find the “Strikethrough” command in the list.
6. Select the “Strikethrough” command and click on the “Add” button in the middle to add it to a new or existing group in the ribbon.
7. Click “OK” to save the changes and close the “Customize the Ribbon” window.

Once added to the ribbon, the strikethrough tool will be easily accessible whenever you need to apply this formatting style to your email messages.

Applying Strikethrough Effect:

To apply the strikethrough effect to text within an email message in Outlook, follow these steps:

1. Highlight the text you want to format with strikethrough.
2. Use the shortcut key combination Ctrl + Shift + 5 or click on the strikethrough button in the toolbar (if added).
3. The selected text will now appear with a strikethrough line through its center, indicating that it has been deleted or is no longer applicable.

Is Strikethrough a Font Effect?

Yes, strikethrough is considered a font effect in Microsoft Outlook. It modifies the appearance of text by adding a horizontal line through its center, visually indicating that the text has been deleted or marked as irrelevant.

Why Do We Use Strikethrough?

Strikethrough formatting serves several purposes in email communications:

1. Indicating Deletion: Strikethrough is commonly used to show that specific text has been removed or deleted from a previous version of the message or document.
2. Highlighting Changes: It can also be used to highlight changes or updates made to a document or email, making it easy for recipients to identify alterations.
3. Denoting Irrelevance: Strikethrough is effective in indicating that certain information is no longer relevant or applicable, helping to streamline communication and avoid confusion.
4. Adding Emphasis: In some cases, strikethrough may be used for emphasis or to draw attention to specific content, particularly in informal or creative contexts.

Here are Some Additional Tips and Considerations For Using Strikethrough Effectively:

1. Consistency in Usage: When using strikethrough to denote deleted or outdated information, maintain consistency throughout your communications. This ensures clarity and prevents confusion among recipients.
2. Contextual Clarity: Provide context or explanations when using strikethrough formatting, especially in collaborative or professional settings. Clear communication helps recipients understand the reason behind the strikethrough and prevents misinterpretation.
3. Review and Revision: Regularly review and revise emails or documents with strikethrough text to ensure accuracy and relevance. Update or remove outdated information to maintain the integrity of your communications.
4. Accessibility Considerations: Be mindful of accessibility considerations when using strikethrough formatting. Some individuals may use screen readers or assistive technologies that may not properly convey strikethrough text. Provide alternative descriptions or explanations when necessary.
5. Use in Task Management: Incorporate strikethrough formatting into your task management or to-do lists to mark completed tasks or items. This visual cue helps track progress and provides a sense of accomplishment.
6. Communication of Changes: When collaborating on documents or projects, use strikethrough to indicate changes or revisions made by you or others. This facilitates transparency and ensures all stakeholders are aware of modifications.
7. Training and Education: Educate team members or colleagues on the usage and significance of strikethrough formatting, particularly in professional environments. Clear guidelines promote consistency and effective communication practices.
8. Feedback and Clarification: Encourage feedback and clarification when strikethrough formatting is used in collaborative documents or communications. This fosters open communication and allows for discussion or resolution of any discrepancies.

By incorporating these additional considerations into your use of strikethrough formatting in Outlook and other communication platforms, you can enhance clarity, collaboration, and effectiveness in your communications.

Conclusion:

In Microsoft Outlook, strikethrough formatting offers a simple yet effective way to convey changes, deletions, or irrelevance within email communications.

By understanding the meaning of strikethrough, shortcuts for applying it, methods for adding it to the toolbar, and its significance in communication, users can enhance clarity and convey information more effectively in their Outlook messages.

Whether used to denote deleted text, highlight changes, or add emphasis, strikethrough remains a valuable tool for enhancing email communication efficiency and clarity.

FAQ