How to format text in WhatsApp (bold, italic, strikethrough)

Why format messages?

WhatsApp allows simple text formatting using special characters. This helps highlight important information, organize long messages and make communication clearer — especially in professional contexts like customer service, sales and support.

Formatting codes

Use these characters around the text you want to format:

Bold

Put asterisks * around the text.

• Code: *bold text*
• Example: bold text

Use for: prices, deadlines, essential information, section titles.

Italic

Put underscores _ around the text.

• Code: _italic text_
• Example: italic text

Use for: notes, quotes, foreign terms, soft emphasis.

Strikethrough

Put tildes ~ around the text.

• Code: ~strikethrough text~
• Example: strikethrough text

Use for: showing old vs. new price, corrections, humor.

Monospace

Put three backticks ``` around the text.

• Code: ```monospace text```
• Example: monospace text

Use for: codes, order numbers, payment keys, texts that need alignment.

Combining formats

You can combine styles in the same text:

• *_bold text + italic text_* → bold text + italic text

The order of characters may vary depending on the WhatsApp version. If it doesn't work, try reversing.

Formatting via tool

If you don't want to memorize the codes, use our message formatter. Just select the text and click the bold, italic or strikethrough buttons — the code is inserted automatically.tools.messageFormatter.name.

We also have a stylized fonts tool for WhatsApp that transforms your text into different styles (script, bold, outline, etc.).Stylized Fonts.

Lists and organization

WhatsApp doesn't have native list formatting, but you can simulate using emojis or characters:

Productivity tips

1. Create formatted templates

Save ready messages with formatting in our WhatsApp Message Templates.

2. Use in moderation

Messages with excessive formatting look cluttered. Use bold for 1-2 main pieces of information, not everything.

3. Test before sending

Send the message to yourself first (save your number as "Me") to see how it looks. Or use our message preview before sending.

Limitations

• There's no text color formatting
• You can't change font size
• Links aren't clickable inside monospace in some versions
• Formatting may not appear in very old app versions

Quick summary

Now you're ready to create more professional and organized messages. Try it on WhatsApp Direct or the message formatter!