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Square Root Symbol in Word – Easy Ways to Insert √ on Windows, macOS, and Ubuntu

Inserting the square root symbol in Word (√) is essential when writing mathematical documents, scientific formulas, or educational content. Fortunately, Word offers multiple ways to insert the √ symbol, whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu. This guide walks you through the easiest methods, including keyboard shortcuts, the Symbol menu, and the built-in Equation Editor, so you can format professional mathematical content in just a few clicks.

💡 What Is the Square Root Symbol?

The square root symbol (√) represents the root of a number. For example, √25 = 5. It’s used widely in:

  • Math assignments
  • Engineering documents
  • Financial reports
  • Scientific papers

Unicode: U+221A
Alt Code (Windows): Alt + 251

🪟 How to Insert the Square Root Symbol in Word on Windows

✅ Method 1: Keyboard Alt Code

  1. Place the cursor where you want to insert √
  2. Press and hold Alt, then type 251 on the numeric keypad
  3. Release Alt → √ appears

📌 Make sure Num Lock is ON and use the numeric keypad.

✅ Method 2: Insert Symbol Menu

  1. Go to Insert > Symbol > More Symbols
  2. Set font to (normal text)
  3. Scroll or type 221A in the Unicode box
  4. Click Insert

✅ Method 3: Equation Tool

  1. Go to Insert > Equation
  2. In the Equation field, type: \sqrt{25}
  3. Press Space → Word formats it as √25

Perfect for inline math expressions.

🍏 How to Insert Square Root Symbol on macOS

✅ Method 1: Character Viewer

  1. Press Control + Command + Space
  2. In the search bar, type “square root”
  3. Double-click √ to insert

✅ Method 2: Equation Editor

  1. Go to Insert > Equation
  2. Type: \sqrt{9}
  3. Hit Space to auto-convert

✅ Method 3: Copy and Paste

Just copy this symbol: √ and paste it into your document.

🔁 Works across all macOS applications, including Pages and Notes.

🐧 How to Insert Square Root Symbol on Ubuntu/Linux

✅ LibreOffice Writer (Word Alternative)

  • Press Ctrl + Shift + U, type 221A, then press Enter
    → √ symbol appears (Unicode input method)

✅ Word Online on Ubuntu

  • Use the standard Alt Code via on-screen keyboard or just paste √

✅ Character Map

  1. Open gucharmap (GNOME Character Map)
  2. Search “square root”
  3. Copy and paste into your Word document or LibreOffice

🧮 Using the Equation Editor (All Platforms)

If you’re writing math-heavy content, the Equation tool is your best friend.

How to use:

  • Go to Insert > Equation
  • Type \sqrt{number} and press Space

Examples:

  • \sqrt{2} → √2
  • \sqrt{x^2 + y^2} → √(x² + y²)

✅ Works on Windows, macOS, and Word Online

📊 Summary Table – Inserting √ Symbol

PlatformShortcut/MethodNotes
WindowsAlt + 251Use numeric keypad
macOSCtrl + Cmd + Space > Search “√”Or use Equation Editor
UbuntuCtrl + Shift + U, then 221ALibreOffice & other editors
AllInsert > Equation > \sqrt{}Works for full mathematical roots

🧠 When to Use the Square Root Symbol in Word?

  • Writing math problems or formulas
  • Creating school or university assignments
  • Technical documentation for engineering
  • Scientific journals and lab reports
  • Financial modeling or risk calculation

🔧 Bonus: Add Square Root Symbol to AutoCorrect (Windows & macOS)

Speed up your workflow:

  1. Go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options
  2. In “Replace” field, type: \sqrt
  3. In “With” field, paste: √
  4. Click OK

Now, typing \sqrt followed by space auto-converts into √

❓ FAQ – Square Root Symbol in Word

Can I use the square root symbol in Excel or PowerPoint?
Yes! The Alt + 251 method works in all Microsoft Office programs.

Why doesn’t Alt + 251 work on my laptop?
You may need to enable Num Lock or use a virtual numeric keypad.

Can I create a custom shortcut for square root?
Yes, through AutoCorrect or using macros in Word.

Is there a way to insert higher roots like cube root?
Yes. Use Insert > Equation > \sqrt[3]{8} for ∛8

✅ Conclusion

Inserting the square root symbol in Word is simple and versatile across Windows, macOS, and Ubuntu. Whether you’re using a quick Alt code, Unicode, or the built-in Equation Editor, you can include √ with minimal effort. Use it for schoolwork, scientific papers, or any time you need to represent roots in your writing. And with shortcuts or AutoCorrect, you’ll be even faster next time!

Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts

If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.

https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/

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