Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
For a short exponent such as the 2 in x², type the base and exponent, select only the exponent, then choose Home > Superscript. In Word for Windows, you can also press Ctrl+Shift+Plus (+); on Mac, use Command+Shift+Plus (+). For a longer or structured expression, use Word’s equation editor.
Type a short exponent in ordinary text
- Type the base and exponent normally, such as
x2. - Select only the exponent character. Leave the base unselected.
- Choose Home > Superscript. Or use the platform-specific shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+Plus (+) in Word for Windows or Command+Shift+Plus (+) in Word for Mac. Microsoft lists these instructions for Word for Microsoft 365, Word 2024, Word 2021, Word 2019, and Word 2016, with Mac availability varying by release. Microsoft’s superscript and subscript instructions provide the platform details.
The selected character is raised while the base remains on the normal text line. This is usually the quickest option for a single raised character in a sentence.
Use an equation for a longer expression
For an exponent with multiple characters, or an expression that includes structures such as fractions or roots, an equation object gives you math-specific editing tools. Ordinary superscript formatting can also raise multiple characters; the equation editor is a practical choice when the expression needs structured mathematical layout.
- In Word for Windows, place the cursor where the equation should go and press Alt+=. You can also choose Insert > Equation.
- Type the expression in the equation box or use the equation tools to build its structure.
Microsoft documents equation insertion and editing through the Word equation editor. Equation entry options can vary by product edition and subscription. For Word on Mac, Microsoft lists Control+= for inserting or toggling math; it is not the same shortcut as the Mac superscript command. See Microsoft’s equation keyboard shortcuts.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
Choose the right method
| What you need | Word feature | How to start |
|---|---|---|
| A short raised character in prose | Superscript formatting | Select the character, then choose Home > Superscript or use the platform shortcut |
| A structured mathematical expression | Equation editor | Insert > Equation, or Alt+= in Word for Windows |
| To remove accidental superscript formatting | Clear manual character formatting | Select the affected text, then press Ctrl+Spacebar |
Stop or remove superscript formatting
If Word keeps raising characters you type afterward, toggle Superscript off. To remove superscript from existing text, select the affected text and press Ctrl+Spacebar to clear manual character formatting. Microsoft documents this shortcut in its Word keyboard shortcuts reference.
If a keyboard shortcut does not work
Use Home > Superscript instead. Word lets users customize keyboard shortcuts, so a changed assignment may explain why a shortcut behaves differently on your installation. Microsoft explains shortcut customization in its keyboard shortcut customization guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Rank #4
- 【Dreamy Rainbow Gaming Keyboard】K521 Gaming Keyboard Adopts a Different LED Backlight Design, Upgraded on the Traditional LED Backlight Effect, Making the Light More Penetrating, Giving You a More Dazzling Visual Effect, Making Your Gaming Process More Enjoyable
- 【One Touch Opens & Visual Feast】The K521 Red Dragon Keyboard has a One-Touch on/off Lighting Button for Added Convenience. It also has a Three-Position Adjustable Breathing Mode and a Four-Position Adjustable Brightness Lighting Mode
- 【Mechanical Feeling & Fast Tapping】The PC Keyboard Keys are Designed for Mechanical Feeling, Giving You a Better Feel During Use and the Ability to Trigger Keys Quickly, Allowing You to Win All Your Games
- 【19 Keys Anti-Ghosting Keyboard】Anti-Ghosting Ensures Every Button Can Be Triggered. This Allows You to Trigger Key Combinations In The Game Accurately, And Each Skill Can Be Accurately Released to Increase Your Winning Rate. Redragon K521 Will Be Your Perfect Partner
- 【12 Multimedia Combination Keys】The K521 Wired Gaming Keyboard is Equipped with 12 Multimedia Keys That Can Greatly Enhance Your Gaming/Office Efficiency and Make It More Convenient to Use
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Rank #2
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
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.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
