To add an arrow in Word, click Insert > Shapes, choose the Line Arrow (or a shape under Block Arrows), then click and drag on the page to draw it. Hold Shift while dragging to keep the arrow perfectly straight. To type an arrow symbol inside a line of text instead, type –> and Word’s AutoCorrect turns it into →.
These steps work in Word for Microsoft 365, Word 2021, 2019, and 2016. Below you’ll also find arrow symbol codes, how to change an arrow’s color and style, and how to make curved arrows.
Method 1: Draw an arrow shape
- Click the Insert tab.
- Click Shapes.
- Under Lines, click Line Arrow. For a thick, filled arrow, choose one under Block Arrows.
- Click and drag on the page where you want the arrow. Hold Shift to snap it to straight or 45-degree angles.
Method 2: Type an arrow with AutoCorrect
| Type this | Word changes it to |
|---|---|
| –> | → (thin right arrow) |
| <– | ← (thin left arrow) |
| ==> | ➔ (thick right arrow) |
| <== | A thick left arrow |
| <=> | ⇔ (double left-right arrow) |
If it doesn’t convert, go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options and make sure Replace text as you type is checked. Press Ctrl + Z right after a conversion to undo it.
Method 3: Insert an arrow symbol
- Click Insert > Symbol > More Symbols.
- Set Subset to Arrows, or set Font to Wingdings or Segoe UI Symbol for more styles.
- Select an arrow and click Insert.
Unicode codes for arrows
Type the code, then press Alt + X: 2190 ←, 2191 ↑, 2192 →, 2193 ↓, 2194 ↔, 21D2 ⇒. This works in Word for Windows.
How to change an arrow’s color, thickness, and style
- Click the arrow to select it.
- Open the Shape Format tab.
- Click Shape Outline to change the color, Weight for thickness, and Dashes for a dotted line.
- Choose Shape Outline > Arrows to change the arrowheads, add one to both ends, or pick a different head style.
For more control, choose Arrows > More Arrows to open the Format Shape pane and set the begin and end arrow types and sizes separately.
How to make a curved or bent arrow
- Curved arrow: In Shapes, choose Curved Arrow Connector under Lines, or draw a Curve and add an arrowhead with Shape Outline > Arrows.
- Elbow arrow: Choose Elbow Arrow Connector under Lines. Drag the yellow handle to adjust the bend.
Keep arrows in place
Shapes float over text by default. To keep an arrow next to specific text, select it, click the Layout Options icon, and choose Move with text. To group an arrow with a picture or text box, hold Shift, click both, then right-click and choose Group > Group.
Frequently asked questions
How do I draw a straight arrow in Word?
Hold Shift while you drag the Line Arrow.
How do I add an arrow in Word on a Mac?
Use Insert > Shapes the same way, or open Edit > Emoji & Symbols and search for “arrow.” AutoCorrect arrows work on Mac too.
How do I delete an arrow?
Click the arrow’s line so it’s selected, then press Delete.
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.