Google Docs Guide
How to Insert the Square Root Symbol in Google Docs
Copy the square root symbol to paste into Google Docs
Two Different Things: The Symbol vs. the Equation
Google Docs gives you two distinct ways to represent a square root, and they serve different purposes:
- The √ character (U+221A) — inserts the Unicode symbol as plain text. Fast, inline, and universally compatible.
- The equation editor — renders a proper typeset radical with a horizontal vinculum (the overline bar) extending across the radicand. Looks exactly like a maths textbook.
For most writing — notes, essays, messages — the plain √ character is all you need. For academic papers or professional documents, use the equation editor.
Method 1: Insert → Special Characters (Easiest)
- Place your cursor where you want √
- Click Insert in the menu bar → Special characters
- In the search box, type square root
- Click √ (radical sign) in the results
- The symbol inserts at your cursor position
Google Docs’ special characters panel also shows the Unicode code point (U+221A) and the character name. You can also draw the shape freehand in the Draw panel and Google will identify it.
Method 2: Paste It Directly
The quickest method for a one-off insertion: copy √ using the Copy √ button on this page, then paste with Ctrl+V (Windows/Chromebook) or Cmd+V (Mac). The character pastes in the current font and size.
Method 3: Option + V on Mac
On a Mac, Option + V types √ directly from the keyboard in Google Docs, just as it does in any macOS application. No menu required. Full details in our Mac guide.
Method 4: Equation Editor (For Typeset Radicals)
- Place your cursor in the document
- Click Insert → Equation
- A blue equation toolbar appears — click Math operations
- Select the square root template
- Type your radicand inside the box
Alternatively, type sqrt{x} directly in the equation box — Google Docs renders it immediately into a proper radical with vinculum. For cube roots, use sqrt[3]{x}.
Using √ in Google Sheets and Slides
| App | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Google Sheets | Type √ directly or paste | For calculation: =SQRT(number) |
| Google Slides | Insert → Special characters | Or paste — works in text boxes |
| Google Forms | Paste | Works in question text and descriptions |
| Gmail / Google Chat | Paste or Option+V (Mac) | No special characters menu in compose |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the keyboard shortcut for √ in Google Docs on Windows?
There’s no built-in Windows shortcut specifically for Google Docs. The most practical options: paste √ from this page, use Insert → Special characters, or set up a substitution in Tools → Preferences → Substitutions (e.g. “sqrt” → √).
Can I set up an autocorrect shortcut for √ in Google Docs?
Yes. Go to Tools → Preferences → Substitutions. In the Replace column type your trigger (e.g. sqrt), in the With column paste √, then click OK. After that, typing “sqrt” and pressing Space automatically inserts √.
What is the difference between √ (the character) and the equation editor radical?
The √ character (U+221A) is plain Unicode text with no extending overline. The equation editor renders a full typeset radical — the vinculum (horizontal bar) extends over the radicand. Use the equation editor for academic or professional documents; use √ for quick inline notation.
Does √ inserted in Google Docs survive copying to Word?
Yes. When you download a Google Doc as .docx (File → Download → Microsoft Word), √ transfers as-is since it’s standard Unicode. Equation editor radicals also convert, though complex formatting may shift slightly.
How do I type ∛ (cube root) in Google Docs?
Insert → Special characters → search “cube root” — you’ll find ∛ (U+221B). Or use the equation editor with sqrt[3]{x} for a typeset version. You can also copy ∛ from our copy and paste page.