Differences Between Deleting, Clearing, and Cutting

Summary: When editing a document, it is important to understand that there is a difference between deleting, clearing, and cutting text. This tip explains the differences, and in the process explains how you can accomplish each task in Word. (This tip works with Microsoft Word 97, Word 2000, Word 2002, and Word 2003.)

In most books you read about Word, and even in the Word documentation, you will see the terms delete, clear, and cut, each of which refers to an action you can do with text. These words are almost interchangeable, but there are subtle differences.

Delete means to remove text or another element from your document by pressing the Del key. This is analogous to clearing.
Clear means to remove text or another element from your document without saving it in the Clipboard. This is typically done with the Del or Backspace key.
Cut means to remove text or another element from your document and save it in the Clipboard. This is accomplished by using the Ctrl+X shortcut keys, or by choosing Cut from the Edit menu.

Tip #5 applies to Microsoft Word versions: 97 | 2000 | 2002 | 2003

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Differences Between Deleting, Clearing, and Cutting