How can you apply italic formatting to text in a document?

The process of applying italic formatting to text in a document is effectively accomplished by selecting the desired text and using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + I. This command is a widely recognized shortcut in many word processing programs that instantly changes the selected text to italics, making it easier for users to format their documents quickly without navigating through menus.

The functionality of italicizing text serves multiple purposes, such as emphasizing certain words, distinguishing titles of works, or highlighting specific terms, which can enhance the readability and clarity of the document. Keyboard shortcuts like this provide efficiency, allowing for smoother workflow and reduced time spent on formatting tasks.

Other options involve either incorrect formatting methods or unrelated functions; for instance, choosing bold results in text that is thicker and darker, while typing in italics directly isn't a standard function in most text editors. Additionally, the shortcut Ctrl + B is specifically designated for bold formatting, not italicizing, and thus does not apply to this scenario.