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MS Word: Text Formatting shortcuts – Windows, Mac, Web

  • Writer: Fakhriddinbek
    Fakhriddinbek
  • Aug 27
  • 4 min read

Updated: Aug 30

Creating professional, polished documents doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With the right text formatting shortcuts, you can transform plain text into visually appealing content in seconds. Whether you're working on a resume, report, or blog post, mastering these shortcuts will help you format faster and smarter.


In this guide, we’ll explore the most essential text formatting shortcuts in Microsoft Word, compare them across Windows, Mac, and Web, and show you how to use them effectively in real-world scenarios.


Word document with "Centre of Power" logo. Below, a table lists text formatting shortcuts for Windows, Mac, and Web. Blue and white theme.
Document showcasing text formatting shortcuts for Windows, Mac, and Web, featuring a table with keyboard commands for actions like bold, italic, and underline, under the header of "Text Formatting Shortcuts – Windows, Mac, Web" by Centre of Power.

Why MS Word: Text Formatting shortcuts – Windows, Mac, Web Matters?

Text formatting is more than just aesthetics. It helps:

  • Improve readability

  • Highlight key points

  • Create structure and hierarchy

  • Make your documents look professional

Using shortcuts to format text means you can focus on your message—not on clicking through menus.


Microsoft Word Text Formatting Shortcuts: Platform Comparison

Here’s a detailed table showing how to format text using MS Word: Text Formatting shortcuts – Windows, Mac, Web:

Formatting Action

Windows

Mac

Web (Browser)

Bold

Ctrl + B

Command (⌘) + B

Ctrl + B

Italic

Ctrl + I

Command (⌘) + I

Ctrl + I

Underline

Ctrl + U

Command (⌘) + U

Ctrl + U

Strikethrough

Ctrl + D → Alt + K

Command (⌘) + Shift + X

Not available directly

Superscript

Ctrl + Shift + +

Command (⌘) + Shift + +

Ctrl + Shift + +

Subscript

Ctrl + =

Command (⌘) + =

Ctrl + =

Increase Font Size

Ctrl + Shift + >

Command (⌘) + Shift + >

Ctrl + Shift + >

Decrease Font Size

Ctrl + Shift + <

Command (⌘) + Shift + <

Ctrl + Shift + <

Clear Formatting

Ctrl + Spacebar

Command (⌘) + Spacebar

Ctrl + Spacebar

Tip: Some shortcuts may require enabling specific keyboard settings or using the formatting dialog box.

How to Use Formatting Shortcuts Effectively

Here’s a simple workflow:

  1. Write your content first – Don’t worry about formatting.

  2. Use shortcuts to highlight key points – Bold headings, italicize terms, underline important dates.

  3. Adjust font size – Make titles stand out.

  4. Clear formatting when needed – Reset styles with one shortcut.

This method keeps your writing focused and your formatting consistent.


Platform-Specific Tips


Windows Users

Windows users have access to advanced formatting via the Font dialog box (Ctrl + D), where you can apply strikethrough, small caps, and more. Combine this with:

  • Ctrl + Shift + >/< for quick font size changes

  • Ctrl + Spacebar to reset formatting


Mac Users

Mac shortcuts are intuitive and consistent across apps. Use:

  • Command + Shift + X for strikethrough

  • Command + = for subscript

  • Command + Shift + + for superscript

Web Users

While the web version of Word is more limited, it still supports core formatting shortcuts. For advanced formatting, use the toolbar or right-click menu.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Over-formatting: Too much bold or underline can clutter your document.

  • Inconsistent styles: Use shortcuts to maintain uniform formatting.

  • Not clearing formatting: Residual styles from copy-pasting can be removed with Ctrl + Spacebar.


Bonus: How to Learn Formatting Shortcuts Faster

  • Practice on real documents: Apply shortcuts while editing.

  • Create a cheat sheet: Print or save a list of your most-used shortcuts.

  • Use keyboard overlays: Visual reminders can help.

  • Teach others: Sharing knowledge reinforces your own.


Real-World Use Cases


Business Reports

Use bold for section titles, italic for references, and underline for deadlines. Format quickly during meetings or while reviewing drafts.


Academic Papers

Apply subscript and superscript for chemical formulas or mathematical expressions. Use strikethrough to show edits during peer reviews.


Creative Writing

Highlight character names or plot points with formatting. Use clear formatting to reset styles when switching genres or tone.


FAQs About Text Formatting Shortcuts


Q: Can I customize formatting shortcuts in Word?

Yes, go to File > Options > Customize Ribbon > Keyboard Shortcuts.


Q: Why doesn’t strikethrough work with a shortcut on the web?

Some advanced formatting features are limited in the web version. Use the toolbar instead.


Q: What’s the fastest way to reset formatting?

Use Ctrl + Spacebar (Windows/Web) or Command + Spacebar (Mac).


Productivity Gains from Formatting Shortcuts

Let’s say formatting a document manually takes 10 minutes. With shortcuts, you can do it in 3. If you format 5 documents a week, that’s 35 minutes saved weekly, or 30+ hours a year!

That’s nearly a full workday reclaimed—just by using formatting shortcuts.


Ready to Format Like a Pro?

If this guide helped you, there’s more waiting for you at this website. We’re here to help you master office programs and unlock your full potential.


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