How to type a ² (squared symbol)

The squared symbol (²) is a mathematical notation used to represent a number or variable multiplied by itself. Whether you’re a student working on assignments, a professional drafting reports, or simply someone curious about typing symbols, knowing how to insert ² into your text can be incredibly useful. Here’s a quick guide to help you type the squared symbol on different devices and platforms.

1. Typing ² on a Windows PC

Using Keyboard Shortcuts:

• Alt Code Method:
  1. Place your cursor where you want the squared symbol.
  2. Hold down the Alt key.
  3. While holding the Alt key, type 0178 on the numeric keypad.
  4. Release the Alt key, and the ² symbol will appear.

Note: Ensure that your Num Lock is turned on, as this method only works with the numeric keypad.

Using Character Map:

1. Open the Start menu and search for “Character Map.”
2. Launch the Character Map application.
3. Find the ² symbol in the list or search for it.
4. Click on the symbol, select “Copy,” and then paste it into your document.
   

   2. Typing ² on a Mac

   1. Place your cursor where you want the squared symbol.
   2. Press Option + 2 (on some keyboards, this combination may vary slightly depending on regional settings).

   If the shortcut doesn’t work, you can also use the Character Viewer:

   1. Click on the Apple menu and go to “System Preferences.”
   2. Select “Keyboard” and enable “Show keyboard and emoji viewers in menu bar.”
   3. Open the viewer from the menu bar, search for ², and insert it into your document.

   3. Typing ² on Smartphones and Tablets

   On Android:

   1. Open the keyboard in any app where you can type.
   2. Switch to the symbols or numbers keyboard (usually by pressing ?123 or 123).
   3. Long-press the 2 key. If your keyboard supports it, a small menu will appear with the ² symbol as an option.
   4. Select the ² symbol.

   On iOS (iPhone/iPad):

   1. Open the keyboard in any app.
   2. Switch to the numbers keyboard by pressing 123.
   3. Long-press the 2 key to see additional options.
   4. Select the ² symbol if it appears.

   4. Typing ² in Word Processors

   Microsoft Word:

   • Use the Superscript option:
     1. Type the number or letter you want to square.
     2. Highlight it.
     3. Press Ctrl + Shift + + (on Windows) or Command + Shift + + (on Mac) to make it superscript.
   • Alternatively, use the “Insert Symbol” option:
     1. Go to the “Insert” tab.
     2. Click “Symbol,” then “More Symbols.”
     3. Find and insert the ² symbol.

   Google Docs:

   1. Highlight the text or number you want to square.
   2. Click on “Format” in the toolbar.
   3. Navigate to “Text” and select “Superscript.”

   5. Copy-Pasting the ² Symbol

   If you’re in a hurry, you can simply copy the ² symbol from here: ², and paste it into your document or application.

   Typing the squared symbol is straightforward once you know the right methods. Whether you’re on a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone, or using a specific word processor, these techniques should cover most scenarios. Practice a few methods to see which one works best for you!