In Word for Windows, click where the equation should go and choose Insert > Equation > Insert New Equation, or press Alt+=. Type the expression in the equation box, or assemble it from the equation ribbon. To turn supported typed notation into a built-up equation, choose Convert > Professional. The ribbon route works without memorizing a shortcut; available commands and input options vary by platform and Word edition.
Insert an equation with Word’s ribbon
- Place the cursor where the equation should appear.
- Select Insert > Equation > Insert New Equation. Word opens an equation box. Microsoft documents this route in its instructions for inserting mathematical symbols.
- Type the expression, or use the equation ribbon’s structures and symbols to build it.
- If the expression is still shown as linear text, use the equation’s Convert options and select Professional for a built-up display.
Type an equation with a keyboard shortcut
For Word on Windows, press Alt+= to insert a new equation, then enter the expression. On Mac, Microsoft’s keyboard accessibility guide documents Control+= for inserting an equation. These are insertion shortcuts; they are not the same as the conversion shortcuts below. See Microsoft’s keyboard guide for working with equations.
Enter linear notation and convert it to a formatted equation
Word supports linear equation input using UnicodeMath and LaTeX, but the syntax is interpreted according to the active input format. Microsoft’s linear equation instructions cover Word 2016 through Word 2024 and Microsoft 365; LaTeX support should not be assumed to be identical in every Office app or edition.
Example: a fraction
In UnicodeMath, type a/(b+c). In LaTeX, type frac{a}{b+c}. Select the equation and convert it to Professional to display it as a built-up fraction. If Word does not interpret the expression as expected, check whether the equation is set to UnicodeMath or LaTeX.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →#1 Best Overall
Conversion shortcuts
In Word for Windows, Ctrl+= converts an equation to Professional format and Ctrl+Shift+= converts it back to linear format. On Mac, the corresponding shortcuts documented by Microsoft are Command+= and Command+Shift+=. These shortcuts change an equation’s format; they do not insert a new equation.
Insert symbols in an equation
When building an equation from the ribbon, use the symbol gallery to browse groups such as Basic Math, Greek Letters, Operators, Arrows, Scripts, and Geometry. You can also enter many symbols with Math AutoCorrect codes. For example, type infty in an equation and press Space to insert the infinity symbol.
Rank #2
- Compact design saves desktop space and allows for close, comfortable mouse position.
- Optimized key spacing and key travel for fast, fluid typing.
- Sleek, low-profile design complements any workspace.
- Expressive input key[2] for quick access to emojis, symbols, and more.
- Connect up to 3 devices and switch seamlessly between them[1].
Math AutoCorrect codes are case-sensitive and depend on the equation input mode. Microsoft notes that these codes do not work in LaTeX mode; use UnicodeMath mode for them. See Microsoft’s Math AutoCorrect commands and symbols guide.
Write an equation with ink
On a device with touch or a pen, Word can convert handwriting to an equation. Microsoft also describes writing with a mouse. Choose Draw > Ink to Math Convert, write the expression, review Word’s interpretation, and select Insert. The steps are documented in Microsoft’s equation and formula training.
Rank #3
- Instant Copilot. Unlock new possibilities with the dedicated Copilot key, which gives you instant access to experiences that can enhance your productivity¹.
- Enhance your experience With the new microphone mute key and snipping key
- Full keyboard experience. Features a full mechanical keyset, backlit keys, and a large trackpad for precise navigation and control. Optimal key spacing allows fast, fluid typing.
- Slim and compact Performs like a traditional, full-size keyboard.
- Clicks in place instantly Use in combination with the Surface Pro (11th Edition), Pro 9 and Pro 8* kickstand for a perfect laptop experience anywhere.
Use equations in Word on a phone or tablet
Microsoft’s mobile instructions describe writing and editing equations in linear format in Android and Word Mobile, then selecting Professional from Math Options to format them. The same support page lists iPhone and iPad, but notes that the described feature on those platforms was limited to Office Insiders at the time the page was documented. Availability can therefore differ by device and app; consult Microsoft’s mobile equation instructions for the platform you use.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do with an old Equation Editor equation
Equation Editor 3.0 is not a current Word feature: Microsoft says it was removed from all Office versions in the January 2018 Public Update. Word’s modern built-in editor uses Office Math Markup Language (OMML). Microsoft recommends converting old Equation Editor objects to OMML when they need to be editable. Its guidance on editing equations created with Microsoft Equation Editor explains the distinction.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
