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PDF Editing Issues

How to Read Replacement Text for Crossed-Out Words in a PDF

Camila MilosovichCamila Milosovich Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to view or open the replacement text associated with crossed-out (strikethrough) words in a PDF file.

How to Read Replacement Text for Crossed-Out Words in a PDF
Product
PDF Reader / Editor
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Reviewing an edited PDF document containing markup, annotations, and suggested text changes.
Observed behavior
The replacement text for the crossed-out words is hidden or not immediately visible on the document page.
Before you start

Ensure your PDF viewer is updated to the latest version, as older software might not properly display advanced annotations, comments, or editing markups.

Solution 1Recommended

View Replacement Text via the Comments Panel

The most reliable way to find replacement text is by checking the dedicated Comments or Annotations panel where all document markups are listed.

Depending on how the PDF was created, replacement text is usually stored as a comment or annotation attached to the strikethrough markup. Standard PDF readers like Adobe Acrobat, Acrobat Reader, or WPS PDF can easily reveal these hidden notes.

1
Open the PDF

Launch Adobe Acrobat, Acrobat Reader, or your preferred standard PDF reader, and open the PDF file containing the crossed-out text.

2
Select the annotation

Locate the crossed-out (strikethrough) text on the page. Hover your cursor over it or click it directly to see if a pop-up note containing the replacement text appears.

3
Open the Comments panel

If no pop-up appears, navigate to the side toolbar and click on the 'Comments' icon to open the Comments panel.

4
Review annotation properties

Look for the specific strikethrough annotation in the Comments list. The replacement text or author's note will be displayed right below it in the panel.

View Replacement Text via the Comments Panel
Missing Annotations: If the Comments panel is empty or the replacement text is not visible, it was likely not embedded properly by the author. You may need to request an updated copy from the document creator.
Read PDF Annotations Easily

Use WPS PDF to Review and Manage PDF Annotations

WPS PDF provides a comprehensive annotation system, making it incredibly easy to view crossed-out words, read replacement text, and reply to comments in one unified and intuitive interface.

  1. 1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF document containing the crossed-out text.
  2. 2. Access the Comment tab: Click on the 'Comment' tab located in the top navigation ribbon.
  3. 3. Open the Comment Panel: Click the 'Comment Panel' button to reveal the sidebar containing all document annotations.
  4. 4. Read replacement text: Select any strikethrough annotation in the document or the panel to instantly read its replacement text and author details.
Easily view all strikethrough markups and replacement texts in a dedicated Comments panel.Fully compatible with standard PDF annotations created in Adobe Acrobat and Microsoft Edge.Lightweight, fast, and completely free to use for reading and basic editing.Seamlessly reply to annotations or add your own text replacement suggestions.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I see the replacement text when I hover over the crossed-out word?

The author may have applied a standard visual strikethrough format without actually attaching a comment or replacement text to it. Alternatively, your PDF viewer's setting to show pop-up annotations on hover might be disabled.

Can I print the PDF with the replacement text visible?

Yes. In the print dialog of most standard PDF readers, you can choose to print 'Document and Markups' or select a 'Summarize Comments' option to ensure the replacement text is included in your printed physical copy.

How do I add my own replacement text to a crossed-out word?

Select the text you want to replace, right-click, and choose 'Add Note to Text' or use the 'Strikethrough' tool from the Comment tab. Once the text is crossed out, double-click the markup to open a text box and type your replacement text.