How to Type Square Root: Methods for Computers and Mobile Devices

Methods to type square root symbol

On computers

• Copy and paste: The simplest method to type square root is to copy √ from a web search and paste it where needed

• Windows keyboard shortcut for square root symbol:

  • Enable Num Lock
  • Hold Alt key and type 251 on the numeric keypad
  • Release Alt key to insert √

• Mac keyboard shortcut to type square root:

  • Press Option+v to type √

• Microsoft Word Equation feature to insert square root character:

  • Place cursor, go to "Insert" tab
  • Click "Equation" in "Symbols" group
  • Click "Radicals" button
  • Select "Square Root" from drop-down menu

• Change font to Symbol for square root:

  • In some applications, change the font to Symbol
  • Type uppercase "Ö" to get √

On mobile devices

• Use math keyboard to type square root:

  • On iOS, tap 123 button, then press and hold 0 to access √
  • On Android with Gboard, tap 123, then =< to find √

• Set up text replacement for square root symbol:

  • iOS: Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement
  • Add "sqrt" as shortcut for √
  • Android: Similar process in keyboard settings

• Third-party apps for inserting square root character:

  • Install apps like Cymbol, Nuten, or SciKey for easy access to √

LaTeX syntax for square root

For LaTeX documents:

• Basic square root: Use \sqrt{} command in math mode to type square root

  • Example: \sqrt{4} = 2

• Nth root: Use \sqrt[n]{} for nth roots

  • Example: \sqrt[3]{27} = 3

• Adjust root appearance: Use \leftroot{} and \uproot{} to fine-tune position

FAQ

How do I type the square root symbol on my keyboard?

On Windows, hold Alt and type 251 on the numeric keypad. On Mac, press Option+v. For mobile devices, use the math keyboard or set up a text replacement shortcut.

What's the easiest way to insert a square root character?

The easiest method is to copy and paste the √ symbol from a web search or use a keyboard shortcut specific to your device.

Can I type the square root symbol in Microsoft Word?

Yes, in Microsoft Word, you can use the Equation feature. Go to the "Insert" tab, click "Equation," then "Radicals," and select "Square Root" from the drop-down menu.

How do I type square root on my iPhone or Android device?

On iOS, tap the 123 button, then press and hold 0 to access √. On Android with Gboard, tap 123, then =< to find √. Alternatively, set up a text replacement shortcut in your keyboard settings.

Is there a universal method to type the square root symbol across all devices?

While there's no universal method, copying and pasting the √ symbol works on most devices and applications. For frequent use, consider setting up a text replacement shortcut or using a third-party app for easy access.