Chromebook Guide
How to Type the Square Root Symbol on Chromebook
Copy the square root symbol instantly
Method 1: Unicode Input (Ctrl + Shift + U)
Chromebooks support Unicode character entry natively through the ChromeOS input system:
- Place your cursor where you want √
- Press Ctrl + Shift + U
- A small underlined u appears, indicating Unicode entry mode
- Type 221a (the hex code for √)
- Press Enter or Space
The √ symbol replaces the typed code immediately. Works in Google Docs, Gmail, Chrome browser fields, and every other app.
Why 221a?
221A is the Unicode hexadecimal code point for the square root symbol — its permanent address in the Unicode standard. Every device that supports Unicode recognises this same code.
Method 2: Copy and Paste
Highlight √ and copy with Ctrl+C — then paste with Ctrl+V anywhere. The symbol is plain Unicode text that works in any Chromebook app.
Method 3: Google Docs Special Characters
- In Google Docs, click Insert → Special characters
- Search for square root in the search box
- Click √ to insert it
This method is slower but useful when you want to browse related mathematical symbols.
Method 4: Chrome OS Virtual Keyboard
On touchscreen Chromebooks, the virtual keyboard includes a symbols panel. Tap the ?123 key, then look in the symbols section for √. If not visible immediately, try the =< panel for mathematical symbols.
Comparison
| Platform | Method | Shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Chromebook | Unicode input | Ctrl+Shift+U → 221a |
| Mac | System shortcut | Option + V |
| Windows | Alt code | Alt + 251 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ctrl+Shift+U work in all Chromebook apps?
Yes, in almost all apps. It works in Chrome browser fields, Google Docs, Gmail, and most Android apps installed from the Play Store. A small number of apps intercept the keyboard shortcut for their own use.
What if the underlined u doesn’t appear?
Make sure you are using the US English keyboard layout in ChromeOS. Go to Settings → Device → Keyboard → Input method and select English (US). Some third-party keyboard apps may also block this shortcut.
Can I type the cube root ∛ on Chromebook?
Yes — use the same method: Ctrl+Shift+U, then type 221b for ∛ (cube root) or 221c for ∜ (fourth root).
Does this method work on Linux or Android apps on Chromebook?
For Linux apps (Crostini), Unicode input works differently. Try holding Ctrl+Shift and typing U221a in GTK apps. For Android apps, copy-paste from this page is the most reliable method.