Ctrl+B is a popular and easy-to-remember keyboard shortcut used to bold text in many applications. Whether you’re working on a Word document, preparing slides in PowerPoint, or formatting a cell in Excel, bold text helps you emphasize important words, headings, or data. This shortcut allows you to apply or remove bold formatting quickly without needing to use your mouse.
Table of Contents
What is Ctrl + B?
Ctrl + B stands for “Bold.” When you select text and press Ctrl + B, it toggles bold formatting — meaning it turns bold on if it’s off, and off if it’s already on. It’s widely supported in text editors, office tools, email platforms, and even some coding environments.
On a Mac, the equivalent is Command + B.
How to Use Ctrl+B
- Select the text or item you want to make bold.
- Press Ctrl + B.
- The selected content will now appear in bold.
- Press Ctrl + B again to remove the bold formatting.
Where Can You Use Ctrl + B?
Microsoft Word
- Highlight key terms, headings, or important notes.
- Ideal for formatting resumes, reports, and documents.
- Works on both plain text and within tables or lists.
Microsoft Excel
- Emphasize column headings, totals, or critical data.
- Bold formatting can improve the readability of your spreadsheets.
- Use in combination with filters and conditional formatting.
Microsoft PowerPoint
- Make slide titles or keywords stand out.
- Bold text draws attention during presentations.
- Apply bold inside text boxes, shapes, or tables.
Google Docs & Sheets
- Ctrl + B toggles bold formatting for selected text or cell content.
- Google Docs: Helpful in collaborative writing for emphasis.
- Google Sheets: Highlight important numbers or formulas.
Email Clients (Gmail, Outlook, etc.)
- Write clearer, more structured emails.
- Use bold to highlight key points, deadlines, or action items.
Design Tools (Canva, Figma, etc.)
- Quick formatting for text in designs.
- Make titles pop or emphasize part of a message.
Code Editors (Markdown, Jupyter Notebook)
- Ctrl + B adds markdown syntax (
**bold**) in some editors. - Helps structure documentation or technical writing.
Benefits of Using Ctrl + B
- Fast formatting – Saves time during writing or editing.
- Improves readability – Draws attention to key text.
- Widely supported – Works across Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and more.
- Easy to toggle – Apply and remove bold with one shortcut.
Advanced Features
In some programs, bold formatting can be paired with other options:
- Ctrl + I: Italics
- Ctrl + U: Underline
- Format Paint: Copy and apply bold formatting to other sections
- Styles & Themes: Customize how bold looks across documents
Common Use Cases
- Making headings or subheadings bold in essays or reports
- Highlighting totals or key metrics in Excel sheets
- Emphasizing important phrases in an email
- Formatting FAQ sections or key points in online posts
- Designing banners or slides with impactful bold titles
FAQs
Text won’t bold?
- Ensure the text is selected before pressing Ctrl + B.
- Check if you’re using a font that supports bold styling.
Formatting not showing up?
- In some apps, bold may not be visible until you switch to a print layout or preview mode.
Accidentally bolded too much?
- Press Ctrl + Z to undo the last action.
Conclusion
Ctrl + B is a simple yet powerful shortcut for writers, students, professionals, and designers. It helps you draw attention to key elements instantly. Whether you’re preparing a document, spreadsheet, email, or design — bold formatting boosts clarity and emphasis with minimal effort.