How to Use Superscript in Microsoft Word

When typing standard text, all letters and numbers rest on an invisible baseline. However, if you are writing a mathematical equation involving exponents (like E=mc\u00b2), referencing a footnote, or typing an ordinal number (like the 1st of January), writing “mc2” or “1st” looks unprofessional and incorrect. You must take the number or letter, shrink it, and raise it slightly above the normal text line. In typography, this formatting style is called Superscript. Microsoft Word includes dedicated tools to instantly apply this formatting, ensuring your documents meet academic and professional standards.

Method 1: The Ribbon Button (The Visual Way)

The most direct way to apply the formatting is by using the dedicated button on the main toolbar. This method is best if you only need to format a few characters.

1. Type your text normally (e.g., type exactly: E=mc2).
2. Using your mouse, carefully click and drag to highlight only the number 2. Do not highlight the letters.
3. Navigate to the Home tab on the ribbon at the top of the screen.
4. Look in the Font group (where the Bold and Italic buttons are).
5. Click the button that looks like an X with a small 2 at the top ( x\u00b2 ).

The number 2 will instantly shrink and lift above the line. (To turn it off and type normally again, simply click the x\u00b2 button a second time).

Method 2: The Keyboard Shortcut (The Professional Way)

If you are writing a math paper and need to type dozens of equations (like x\u00b2 + y\u00b2 = z\u00b2), constantly stopping to highlight numbers and click tiny buttons will destroy your typing speed. You must use the keyboard shortcut.

1. Type the base of your equation (e.g., type x).
2. Before you type the exponent, press and hold the Ctrl and Shift keys together, then tap the + (Plus) key. (Ctrl + Shift + +).
3. Your blinking cursor will shrink and rise up.
4. Type the number (e.g., type 2). It will appear in superscript.
5. Press Ctrl + Shift + + again. Your cursor will return to normal size.
6. Continue typing the rest of your equation.

Note for Mac Users: The keyboard shortcut on macOS is Command + Shift + +.

AutoCorrect for Ordinal Numbers

You generally do not need to use the buttons or shortcuts for ordinal numbers (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th). Microsoft Word has an AutoCorrect feature enabled by default specifically for this. If you type “1st” and press the Spacebar, Word will automatically detect it and convert the “st” into superscript instantly without any further action required.