The squared symbol, represented typographically as a superscript two ($^2$), is a specialized character used primarily in mathematics and scientific notation to denote exponentiation to the power of two, or a unit of area. Simply typing the numeral “2” after a variable or number does not convey the correct meaning, as the formatting must indicate it is an exponent positioned above the baseline. Using the correct character ensures that equations like $x^2$ or measurements like $\text{m}^2$ are rendered with the proper visual and functional meaning across all digital platforms. The methods for generating this specific character vary depending on the operating system and the software application being used.
Using Keyboard Shortcuts (Alt Codes and Unicode)
The most direct way to input the squared symbol on a Windows computer, regardless of the application, is by using an Alt Code. This method relies on the computer’s extended ASCII character set to input the specialized character directly. To execute this, users must hold down the `Alt` key and type `0178` using the dedicated numeric keypad, not the row of numbers above the letter keys. Releasing the `Alt` key after the code is fully entered instantly produces the $^2$ symbol. An alternative Alt Code that generates the same character is `Alt + 253`.
On laptops that lack a full numeric keypad, users must often activate the hidden numeric keys, typically by pressing a function key combination like `Fn + NumLk`, before attempting the Alt Code sequence. This ensures the letter keys on the right side of the keyboard function temporarily as a numerical input device.
Mac users have a more streamlined shortcut. The squared symbol is available by holding down the `Option` key and simultaneously pressing the `2` key. This immediately inserts the $^2$ symbol into the text field.
A universal method available on many operating systems, including Linux and Windows, involves the Unicode standard. The squared symbol is officially mapped to the code point U+00B2. In supported text fields, users can type the hexadecimal code `00B2` and then press `Alt + X` or `Ctrl + Shift + U` followed by a space to convert the code into the character. This method utilizes Unicode, a system designed to assign a unique number to every character across all languages and platforms.
Formatting in Word Processors (Microsoft Word and Google Docs)
Word processing applications like Microsoft Word and Google Docs offer dedicated formatting tools, which are often preferable when the goal is to create an exponent from an already typed numeral. Within Microsoft Word, the most efficient method is the keyboard combination `Ctrl + Shift + +` (Control, Shift, and the Plus sign). This combination toggles the superscript formatting on and off. This allows a user to type the base, activate the shortcut, type the number two, and then deactivate the shortcut to return to normal text.
Alternatively, users can navigate to the application ribbon and click the dedicated superscript button, which appears as $\text{X}^2$ in the Font group on the Home tab. Clicking this button performs the same function as the keyboard shortcut, applying or removing the raised text formatting to the selected character. This formatting approach is distinct from the Alt Code method because it changes the visual appearance of a standard numeral, rather than inserting a pre-formatted, single character symbol.
Google Docs also uses a similar formatting approach. The quickest way to apply the superscript style is by using the shortcut `Ctrl + .` (Control and the Period key) on Windows, or `Cmd + .` on Mac. This shortcut functions as a toggle, easily switching the text entry mode between normal and superscript formatting.
For users who prefer to use the menu interface, the superscript option is found by clicking the `Format` menu at the top of the screen. From the dropdown menu, selecting `Text` and then `Superscript` will apply the elevated formatting to the highlighted text or activate the mode for subsequent typing.
Mobile Devices and Online Forms
Inputting the squared symbol on mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, generally relies on a simple long-press gesture on the virtual keyboard. On both iOS and Android platforms, the standard virtual keyboard often includes the $^2$ symbol as an alternate character for the number key. Pressing and holding the numeral ‘2’ key will cause a small pop-up menu to appear, from which the superscript two can be selected and inserted into the text field.
This method is intuitive and provides the specific character without requiring special codes or formatting tools. However, if online input forms or basic web interfaces strip the formatting upon submission, the most reliable workaround is the universal copy-and-paste method. A user can search for the squared symbol online, copy the character, and then paste it directly into the restrictive text field.