The quickest way to add a check mark in Word is Insert > Symbol > More Symbols, set the font to Wingdings, select the check mark (character code 252) and click Insert. You can also type 2713 and press Alt + X to turn it into ✓, or add a clickable check box from the Developer tab.
Quick Answer
Type 2713 then press Alt + X for ✓, or 2714 then Alt + X for a heavy ✔. For a tickable box, use Developer > Check Box Content Control.
Method 1: Insert Symbol
- Click where you want the check mark.
- Go to Insert > Symbol > More Symbols.
- Choose Wingdings in the Font box.
- Type 252 in Character code, or scroll to the check mark. Code 254 gives a checked box.
- Click Insert, then Close. Next time it appears under Symbol’s recently used list.
Method 2: Unicode and Alt + X
Type 2713 and press Alt + X. Word converts it to ✓ in the current font, if that font includes the character. Use 2714 for a heavier mark. This works in Word for Windows; on a Mac, use Insert > Advanced Symbol or the Character Viewer (Ctrl + Cmd + Space).
Method 3: A Clickable Check Box
- Show the Developer tab: File > Options > Customize Ribbon > tick Developer.
- Click Developer > Check Box Content Control.
- Click the box to tick it. To show a check mark instead of an X, choose Properties and change the Checked symbol.
Methods Compared
| Method | Result | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Insert Symbol | Static check mark | Occasional use |
| 2713 + Alt + X | Static check mark | Fast typing |
| Check Box Content Control | Clickable box | Forms and to-do lists |
| Bullets > Define New Bullet | Check mark bullets | Lists |
To remove a check box control later, see removing content controls in Word.
Troubleshooting
- A letter appears instead of a check mark: Wingdings characters change when the font changes. Keep the symbol in Wingdings, or use the Unicode method.
- Alt + X does nothing: Make sure the cursor is right after the code with no space.
- Need other symbols? See typing an em dash.
- Building a form? See drop-down lists in Word.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a shortcut for the check mark?
Yes. In the Symbol dialog, select the check mark and click Shortcut Key, or set up AutoCorrect to replace a word such as (check).
How do I make check mark bullets?
Home > Bullets arrow > Define New Bullet > Symbol, then pick the check mark.
Does the check mark print?
Yes, both symbols and check box controls print as shown.
Summary
- Use Insert > Symbol with Wingdings 252.
- Or type 2713 and press Alt + X.
- Use a Check Box Content Control for clickable boxes.
- Add a shortcut or AutoCorrect entry if you use it often.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.