How to Write Exponents in Word (5 Easy Methods)

Exponents, like the 2 in x² or the 23 in 6.02 × 10²³, are written in Microsoft Word as superscript: smaller text raised above the line. Word gives you several ways to create them, from a one-key shortcut to a full equation editor for math-heavy documents. This guide covers every method on Windows and Mac, plus how to undo superscript and avoid common formatting mistakes.

Quick Answer

Select the number or letter you want as the exponent and press Ctrl + Shift + = (Cmd + Shift + = on Mac), or click the Superscript button (x²) in the Font group on the Home tab. Press the same shortcut again to return to normal text.

Which Method Should You Use?

Method	Best for
Keyboard shortcut	Fast, everyday exponents while typing
Superscript button	Mouse users
Font dialog	Precise control, applying with other font settings
Equation editor	Math formulas, fractions, and complex expressions
Insert Symbol	Single characters like ² and ³ that behave as normal text

Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut

Format existing text

1. Type the full expression, such as x2.
2. Select only the exponent (the 2).
3. Press Ctrl + Shift + = on Windows or Cmd + Shift + = on Mac.

Format as you type

1. Type the base, such as x.
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + = to turn superscript on.
3. Type the exponent.
4. Press Ctrl + Shift + = again to return to normal text.

For subscript (like the 2 in H₂O), use Ctrl + = (Cmd + = on Mac).

Method 2: Superscript Button

1. Select the exponent.
2. On the Home tab, in the Font group, click Superscript (x²).

The button stays highlighted while the cursor is in superscript text, which helps you see when superscript is on.

Method 3: Font Dialog Box

1. Select the exponent.
2. Press Ctrl + D (Cmd + D on Mac), or click the small arrow in the corner of the Font group.
3. Under Effects, check Superscript.
4. Click OK.

Method 4: Equation Editor (Best for Math)

1. Press Alt + = (Windows) or go to Insert > Equation. A math zone appears.
2. Type the expression using the caret symbol for exponents, such as x^2, then press Space. Word converts it to x².
3. For longer exponents, use parentheses: e^(rt) becomes e^rt after you press Space.

You can also choose Script > Superscript from the Equation tab and fill in the boxes. Equations keep proper math spacing and are easy to edit later.

Method 5: Insert a Superscript Symbol

For common exponents like ² and ³ (useful in units such as m²):

1. Go to Insert > Symbol > More Symbols.
2. Set Subset to Latin-1 Supplement or Superscripts and Subscripts.
3. Select the character and click Insert.

On Windows, you can also type the Unicode code followed by Alt + X: 00B2 Alt + X for ² and 00B3 Alt + X for ³. These characters stay raised even if the text is copied into apps that do not support formatting.

Automate Common Exponents With AutoCorrect

1. Insert and select a formatted exponent, such as m².
2. Go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options.
3. In Replace, type a shortcut such as m2^. Choose Formatted text and click Add.

Now typing m2^ inserts m² automatically.

How to Remove Superscript

• Select the text and press Ctrl + Shift + = again, or click the Superscript button.
• Press Ctrl + Space to clear all character formatting from the selection.

Exponents in Word for the Web and Mobile

• Word for the web: the same shortcut (Ctrl + Shift + =) and the Superscript button on the Home tab work. You can also use Insert > Equation.
• Word mobile: select text, open the Home menu, and look for Superscript in the font options.

Troubleshooting

The shortcut zooms in or does nothing

Some keyboards and apps intercept the shortcut. Use the Superscript button, or make sure you are pressing the = key on the main keyboard, not the numeric keypad.

Everything I type is superscript

Superscript is still on. Press the shortcut again or click the Superscript button to turn it off.

Exponents look too small or too high

Superscript size depends on the base font. Increase the font size, or in the Font dialog, use the Advanced tab to adjust Position and use a raised position with normal size text instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the shortcut for exponents in Word?

Ctrl + Shift + = on Windows and Cmd + Shift + = on Mac.

How do I type squared in Word?

Type 2, select it, and press Ctrl + Shift + =, or type 00B2 and press Alt + X to insert ².

How do I write a negative exponent?

Superscript the minus sign along with the number, such as 10^-3, or type 10^(-3) in the equation editor.

Can I use exponents in Word tables and headings?

Yes. Superscript works anywhere in Word, including tables, headers, footers, and footnotes.

Summary

1. Select the exponent and press Ctrl + Shift + = (Cmd + Shift + = on Mac).
2. Or click Superscript (x²) on the Home tab.
3. Use the equation editor (Alt + =) for math formulas.
4. Insert ² and ³ as symbols for units.