Microsoft Word gives you several ways to write fractions, from automatic formatting that turns 1/2 into ½ as you type, to the equation editor for stacked fractions like those in math textbooks. The right method depends on whether you need a quick recipe measurement or a professional-looking formula. This guide covers every option in Word for Windows, Mac, and the web.
Quick Answer
For common fractions, type 1/2, 1/4, or 3/4 followed by a space, and Word converts them to ½, ¼, or ¾. For any other fraction, press Alt + = to insert an equation, type the fraction (for example 5/8), and press Space to turn it into a stacked fraction. Or use Insert > Equation > Fraction.
Which Method Should You Use?
| Method | Result | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| AutoFormat | ½ ¼ ¾ | Quick common fractions in normal text |
| Insert Symbol | ⅓ ⅔ ⅛ and others | Other single-character fractions |
| Equation editor | Stacked fraction with a horizontal bar | Math, science, and any fraction |
| Superscript and subscript | A slanted fraction like &sup5;⁄₈ | Custom fractions in regular text |
Method 1: Let Word AutoFormat Common Fractions
Type 1/2, 1/4, or 3/4 and press Space or keep typing. Word replaces it with a single fraction character.
If this does not happen, turn it on: go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options > AutoFormat As You Type and check Fractions (1/2) with fraction character (½). Uncheck it if you want Word to stop changing fractions.
Method 2: Insert a Fraction Symbol
- Go to Insert > Symbol > More Symbols.
- Set Font to (normal text) and Subset to Number Forms.
- Choose a fraction, such as ⅓, ⅔, ⅕, ⅛, or ⅞, and click Insert.
On Windows, you can also type a Unicode code and press Alt + X. For example, 2153 then Alt + X inserts ⅓, and 215B then Alt + X inserts ⅛.
Method 3: Use the Equation Editor (Any Fraction)
Type it
- Press Alt + = (Windows) or choose Insert > Equation. A math zone appears.
- Type the fraction, such as 5/8, and press Space. Word turns it into a stacked fraction.
- For longer parts, use parentheses: (x+1)/(x-1) then Space.
- Click outside the equation to return to normal text.
Use the Fraction menu
- Insert an equation with Alt + =.
- On the Equation tab, click Fraction.
- Choose Stacked Fraction, Skewed Fraction, Linear Fraction, or Small Fraction.
- Click each placeholder box and type the numerator and denominator.
To place the equation inline with your text, click the equation's dropdown arrow and choose Change to Inline.
Method 4: Superscript and Subscript
- Type the fraction with a slash, such as 5/16.
- Select the numerator (5) and press Ctrl + Shift + = for superscript.
- Select the denominator (16) and press Ctrl + = for subscript.
For a cleaner look, replace the slash with the fraction slash character: type 2044 and press Alt + X.
Make Custom Fractions Reusable With AutoCorrect
- Create and select the fraction you want (for example, a stacked 5/8 equation or a superscript/subscript version).
- Go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options.
- Type a shortcut such as 5/8f in Replace, select Formatted text, and click Add. For equations, use Math AutoCorrect.
Fractions in Word for Mac and the Web
- Mac: use Insert > Equation or Control + =, and the Fraction menu on the Equation tab. Superscript is Cmd + Shift + = and subscript is Cmd + =.
- Word for the web: use Insert > Equation and type the fraction with a slash.
To work out the answer before you type it, see how to do fractions on Google Calculator.
Troubleshooting
1/3 does not turn into a fraction
AutoFormat only works for ½, ¼, and ¾. Use Insert Symbol or the equation editor for others.
The equation is too small or too big
Select the equation and change its font size on the Home tab, just like regular text.
Fractions look different in another program
Equations may appear as images or plain text in programs that do not support Word equations. Symbol characters (½) are the most compatible.
Related: Insert an equation in Word.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shortcut for fractions in Word?
Press Alt + =, type the fraction with a slash, and press Space.
How do I type a mixed number like 2½?
Type 2, then 1/2 and a space for AutoFormat, or insert an equation and type 2 1/2 followed by Space.
How do I stop Word from changing fractions?
Uncheck the fractions option in AutoFormat As You Type, or press Ctrl + Z right after Word changes one.
Summary
- Type 1/2, 1/4, or 3/4 and let AutoFormat convert them.
- Use Insert > Symbol for other fraction characters.
- Press Alt + =, type the fraction, and press Space for stacked fractions.
- Use superscript and subscript for custom inline fractions.
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.