How to Type the Square Symbol (²) on Windows?

Typing the square symbol (²), often referred to as superscript two, on your Windows computer is straightforward, especially when you know the right keyboard shortcuts or tools. This symbol is commonly used in mathematical expressions (e.g., x²) or units of measurement (e.g., m² for square meters).

1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts in Word Processors (As Referenced)

The most common and efficient way to insert the square symbol, particularly within word processing applications like Microsoft Word, is by using a keyboard shortcut that toggles superscript formatting.

As highlighted in the provided reference, you can achieve the squared symbol by pressing:

• Ctrl + Shift + = (Equals Sign)

This shortcut is designed to enable or disable superscript mode. While the reference mentions "plus sign," it refers to the '+' symbol found on the same key as the equals sign (=) on most standard keyboards. Pressing Ctrl + Shift along with this key activates the superscript function.

Steps to use this shortcut:

1. To apply superscript to existing text:
   • First, type the character or number you wish to make into a superscript (e.g., type "2").
   • Select that character (e.g., highlight the "2").
   • Press Ctrl + Shift + = simultaneously. The selected character will transform into a superscript (²).
2. To type directly in superscript mode:
   • Press Ctrl + Shift + = to activate superscript mode.
   • Type the character you want to be superscripted (e.g., "2"). It will appear as a superscript.
   • Press Ctrl + Shift + = again to deactivate superscript mode and return to normal text.

2. Using Alt Codes for the Square Symbol (²)

For universal compatibility across many applications on Windows, you can use an Alt code. This method requires a numeric keypad.

Steps:

1. Ensure your Num Lock is turned on.
2. Hold down the Alt key on your keyboard.
3. While holding Alt, type 0178 using the numeric keypad (not the numbers above the letter keys).
4. Release the Alt key. The ² symbol will appear.

3. Using the Character Map

Windows includes a built-in utility called Character Map, which allows you to find and insert almost any character.

Steps:

1. Open the Start Menu and search for "Character Map." Click to open the application.
2. In the Character Map window, ensure the font is set to a common one like "Arial" or "Times New Roman" as they contain a wide range of symbols.
3. Scroll through the characters or use the "Search for" box (type "superscript two" or "square") to locate the ² symbol.
4. Click on the ² symbol, then click Select, and finally Copy.
5. Paste the symbol into your desired document or text field (Ctrl + V).

4. Utilizing Word Processor Features

Most modern word processors, such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or LibreOffice Writer, have dedicated buttons or menu options for superscript formatting, which is useful for creating the square symbol.

Example (Microsoft Word):

1. Type the character you want to be superscripted (e.g., "2").
2. Select the character.
3. Go to the Home tab in the Word ribbon.
4. Click the Superscript button (which looks like X²).

Summary of Methods

Here's a quick reference table for typing the square symbol:

Other Interpretations of "Square on Windows"

While the primary intent of the question, given the reference, is about typing the square symbol, "doing square on Windows" can also refer to:

• Drawing a Square: You can draw square shapes using applications like Microsoft Paint, or by inserting shapes in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or other graphic design tools.
• Mathematical Squaring: To perform a mathematical squaring operation (e.g., 5² = 25), you can use the built-in Windows Calculator (select "Scientific" mode to find the x² button) or spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel (e.g., =5^2).