How to put superscripts and subscripts in Word

When it comes to document creation, Microsoft Word is one of the most used tools in the creation of documents. And to get the most out of it, it is best to know all its functions. Among the most important formatting options we find the use of Superscripts and subscripts in Word, essential for mathematical expressions, chemical formulas and bibliographical references.

If you've ever wondered how to apply these effects to your text in Word, you've come to the right place. In this detailed guide, we'll show you all the possible ways to superscript and subscript, from the keyboard shortcuts until Advanced Options of format.

What are superscripts and subscripts?

But before we start, it is necessary to clarify these concepts. Superscripts and subscripts in Word are characters that are placed slightly above or below the baseline of normal textThey are used in various areas such as mathematics, chemistry or even to decorate certain writing styles.

• Superscript: It is placed above the base text line. It is commonly used in mathematical exponents (Example: 10³) and bibliographical references.
• Subscript: It is located below the base text. It is common in chemical formulas (Example: H₂O).

How to apply superscripts and subscripts in Word

There are several ways to format superscripts and subscripts in Microsoft Word. Here are the most effective methods:

Using the toolbar buttons

Word includes specific buttons on its toolbar to easily apply these formats. Here's how to use them:

1. First we open our document in Microsoft Word.
2. Then we select the text or number we want to modify.
3. We access the tab Home.
4. In the group Source, we select the button superscript (x²) o subscript (x₂).

Keyboard shortcuts

For those looking for speed, keyboard shortcuts are an excellent option. In the case of superscripts and subscripts in Word, these are the ones we need to know:

• Superscript: Ctrl + Shift + + (that is, press Control, Shift, and the plus sign at the same time).
• Subscript: CTRL+= (press Control and equal sign simultaneously).

Formatting from the Font Dialog Box

If we need more control over the format, we can use the Font dialog box as follows:

1. First, we select the text we want to modify.
2. Let's go to the tab Start.
3. In the group Source, we click on the arrow in the lower right corner.
4. Finally, in the configuration window of Source that opens, we mark the option Superscript o Subscript and click on Accept.

How to insert superscript and subscript symbols

To insert specific characters that already include formatting superscript or subscript, This is what needs to be done:

1. We position the cursor where you want to insert the symbol.
2. Let's go to the tab Insert.
3. There we click on Symbol.
4. Then we access More symbols.
5. In the drop-down list Subset, Select Superscripts and subscripts.
6. We select the desired symbol and click on Insert.
7. To finish, we click on Close.

How to remove superscript or subscript formatting

In case we need to return the text to its normal format, the steps are these:

1. We select the text in superscript or subscript format.
2. We push Ctrl + Spacebar.
3. Alternatively, we click the buttons again superscript o subscript in the toolbar.

Advanced uses of superscripts and subscripts

Superscripts and subscripts are not only used in mathematics and chemistry, they also have other uses. interesting uses. These are some examples:

• Bibliographic references: In academic papers, superscript numbers indicate footnotes.
• Registered trademark symbols: For instance, ™ y ® They usually appear in superscript.
• Advanced Spelling: In some languages, ordinals such as 1st and 2nd are presented with superscripts.

Mastering superscripts and subscripts in Word can be very useful in technical and professional documents. Knowing all the options available in Word will allow you to apply these formats efficiently and without complications.