How to Clear Formatting in Google Docs
Short Answer
How do you clear formatting in Google Docs?
Select the text and press Ctrl + \ or Ctrl + Space on Windows, or ⌘ + \ on a Mac. The text goes back to plain formatting. With the ShortieCuts extension, you can also press Alt (Option on Mac), then H E.
Add to Chrome (14 Days Free)In ShortieCuts' key-tip menu: Home › Clear Formatting. On a Mac, press Option instead of Alt.
Google's Built-in Shortcut
| Command | Windows | Mac |
|---|---|---|
| Clear text formatting | Ctrl+\ or Ctrl+Space | ⌘+\ |
These are Google's own shortcuts and work without any extension. To see Google's full list, press Ctrl + / (⌘ + / on Mac) in Google Docs.
The Word-Style ALT Shortcut
- Add the ShortieCuts extension to Chrome and open any Google Docs document.
- Select the text you want to clean up.
- Press Alt (or Option on Mac). Word-style key-tips appear.
- Press H, then E. ShortieCuts runs “Clear Formatting”.
When the ALT route helps: Alt, H, E is Clear All Formatting on Word's Home tab. In ShortieCuts it clicks Google's Clear formatting button, so you don't need to find the backslash key.
More Google Docs How-Tos
| Keys | How To |
|---|---|
| Alt HKD | Line Spacing |
| Alt PJ2 | Columns |
| Alt FI | Version HistoryBuilt-in: Ctrl + Alt + Shift + H |
| Alt HAI | IndentBuilt-in: Ctrl + ] |
| Alt NNU | Page Numbers |
| Alt HD | Voice TypingBuilt-in: Ctrl + Shift + S |
FAQ
What is the keyboard shortcut to clear formatting in Google Docs?
Clear text formatting: Ctrl + \ or Ctrl + Space on Windows; ⌘ + \ on Mac. These are Google's own shortcuts and work without any extension.
Does Alt + H + E work in Google Docs?
Not on its own. Google Docs has no ribbon key-tips, so typing Alt + H + E there won't clear formatting. With the ShortieCuts Chrome extension installed, press Alt (Option on Mac), then H, then E, and ShortieCuts runs its "Clear Formatting" command.
How do I clear formatting in Google Docs on a Mac?
On a Mac, use Google's shortcut: ⌘ + \ (Clear text formatting). With ShortieCuts, press Option instead of Alt, then H, then E.
Is ShortieCuts free?
ShortieCuts has a free 14-day trial with no credit card needed. After the trial, Pro is $7.99 a month or $69.99 a year.