How to write exponents in Word, how to write superscripts and subscripts in Word

This helps you quickly complete content in Mathematics or Chemistry, which frequently requires the use of exponents. Below are instructions on how to write exponents in Word using various methods.

How to write exponents in Word using keyboard shortcuts

To write superscripts in Word, we use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + = .

For example, to type a superscript as shown in the image, press the Ctrl + Shift + = key combination, then type the number 2. Finally, press Ctrl + Shift + = again to return to normal input mode.

To write a subscript in Word, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + = .

For example, to write a chemical formula like the one below, you type the letter H, then press Ctrl + =, then press the number 2, and then press Ctrl + = again to finish writing the subscript. You perform the same operation for the remaining subscripts.

How to write superscripts and subscripts using fonts

With Word versions 2007, 2010, 2013, and 2016, creating exponents, superscripts, and subscripts is much simpler, as the subscripts are already available on the toolbar.

To write a superscript in Word, type the text containing the superscript, then highlight the superscript and press  the Home tab , then find the X ² icon as shown below. Immediately after that, you will have the superscript you need.

To create a subscript in Word , you also need to highlight the subscript you want to create, click the Home tab , and then click the X ₂ icon as shown in the image. You will then get the desired subscript.

Using exponents in older versions of Word

In older versions of Word , the X ₂ option (for writing subscripts) or X ² (for writing superscripts) was not available on the menu bar. Therefore:

To write superscripts in Word, enter the formula or calculation containing the superscript you want to create using your regular text input method.

Next, highlight the number you want to create, right-click and select Font .

In the Font panel, find the Effects section , then check the Superscript option and click OK . Immediately, the superscript will be created in the content. We perform the same operation for the remaining superscript.

To create a subscript in Word , similar to creating a superscript, you write the content containing the subscript, then highlight the subscript, right-click, and select Font.

A Font dialog box will appear; find the Effects section and select Subscript .

Perform the same operation with the remaining sub-indexes.

The above is a guide on how to create exponents, superscripts, and subscripts in Word. If you are using Word 2007 or later, method 3 is simpler. For Word 2003, choose method 1 or 2 for convenience.

Good luck with your project!