How to Write Subscript in Word (and Superscript)

Microsoft Word gives you three easy ways: the Home ribbon, the Font dialog, and keyboard shortcuts. If you need how to write CO₂ in Word quickly across many places, you can also paste Unicode from our subscript generator.

Method 1: Home Ribbon

Select the characters to format (example: the 2 in H2O).
Open the Home tab.
In the Font group, click Subscript (x₂) or Superscript (x²).

Method 2: Keyboard Shortcuts

Action	Windows	Mac
Subscript	Ctrl + =	⌘ + =
Superscript	Ctrl + Shift + =	⌘ + Shift + =

Select text first, then press the shortcut. This is the fastest method for frequent editing.

Method 3: Font Dialog

Select your text.
Press Ctrl + D (Windows) or open Format → Font (Mac).
Check Subscript or Superscript, then click OK.

Paste Unicode CO₂, H₂O, x² from the Generator

Our tool creates real Unicode characters. That helps when you want the same symbols in Word, email, and WhatsApp without reformatting each time.

Open the Subscript Generator.
Type CO2, H2O, or exponents like x2.
Use Subscript or Superscript; for formulas use Formula + Numbers Only: On.
Copy and paste into Word.

Tip: In Word you can still apply bold or italic to Unicode subscript if your font supports it.

Quick Answers

How do I write CO₂ in Word? Select the 2, click Subscript on the Home tab—or paste CO₂ from our generator.

Subscript shortcut not working? Make sure text is selected and you are not in a field that blocks shortcuts.