How to Read Replacement Text for Crossed-Out Words in a PDF
Question details
The user needs to view or open the replacement text associated with crossed-out (strikethrough) words in a PDF file.

- 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.
Ensure your PDF viewer is updated to the latest version, as older software might not properly display advanced annotations, comments, or editing markups.
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.
Launch Adobe Acrobat, Acrobat Reader, or your preferred standard PDF reader, and open the PDF file containing the crossed-out text.
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.
If no pop-up appears, navigate to the side toolbar and click on the 'Comments' icon to open the Comments panel.
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.

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. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF document containing the crossed-out text.
- 2. Access the Comment tab: Click on the 'Comment' tab located in the top navigation ribbon.
- 3. Open the Comment Panel: Click the 'Comment Panel' button to reveal the sidebar containing all document annotations.
- 4. Read replacement text: Select any strikethrough annotation in the document or the panel to instantly read its replacement text and author details.

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.




