How to Superscript in Google Docs
Need to add exponents, trademark symbols, or footnote references in Google Docs? This guide covers three methods to create superscript text, plus tips for common use cases.
Quick Answer
To superscript in Google Docs, select your text and press Ctrl + . (period) on Windows, or Cmd + . on Mac.
What is Superscript?
Superscript is text that appears slightly above the normal line of text and in a smaller font size. You see superscript every day in mathematical expressions like x2, ordinal numbers like 1st, and trademark symbols like BrandTM.
In Google Docs, superscript formatting raises selected characters above the baseline while reducing their size. This makes it perfect for:
- Exponents and powers (like 103 or E=mc2)
- Ordinal indicators (1st, 2nd, 3rd)
- Trademark and copyright symbols (BrandTM, Product®)
- Footnote references (text1)
- Scientific notation (H2O, CO2 - though these use subscript)
Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut (Fastest)
The quickest way to add superscript in Google Docs is using a keyboard shortcut. This method works instantly and is ideal when you need to format text frequently.
Windows / Chromebook
Mac
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Select the text you want to convert to superscript. Click and drag your cursor over the characters, or double-click a word to select it entirely.
- Press the keyboard shortcut - Ctrl+. on Windows or Cmd+. on Mac. The selected text will immediately appear raised and smaller.
- Continue typing if needed. Any new text you type will remain in superscript mode until you press the shortcut again to turn it off.
Pro Tip: You can apply superscript before typing. Place your cursor where you want superscript text, press Ctrl+. (or Cmd+.), type your superscript characters, then press the shortcut again to return to normal text.
Method 3: Insert Special Characters
For specific superscript characters like numbers (for exponents) or common symbols, you can insert pre-formatted superscript characters directly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Click "Insert" in the top menu bar.
- Select "Special characters" from the dropdown.
- Search for "superscript" in the search box, or browse the "Number" category.
- Click the character you want to insert (like superscript 2: ²).
Common Superscript Characters Available
Superscript 1
Superscript 2
Superscript 3
Superscript 4
Superscript 5
Superscript 6
Superscript 7
Superscript 8
Superscript 9
Superscript 0
Trademark
Registered
The advantage of special characters is they look consistent regardless of the font. However, this method only works for pre-existing superscript symbols, not arbitrary text.
How to Remove Superscript in Google Docs
Removing superscript formatting is straightforward. You have two options:
Option 1: Toggle with Keyboard Shortcut
- Select the superscripted text.
- Press Ctrl + . (or Cmd + . on Mac).
- The text returns to normal formatting.
Option 2: Use the Format Menu
- Select the superscripted text.
- Go to Format → Text → Superscript.
- The checkmark next to Superscript will disappear, and the text returns to normal.
Option 3: Clear All Formatting
If you want to remove all formatting (not just superscript), select the text and press Ctrl + \ (backslash) on Windows or Cmd + \ on Mac. This clears bold, italic, superscript, and any other formatting.
Superscript vs Subscript: What is the Difference?
While both are used to display text at a different level than the main text, superscript and subscript serve different purposes:
| Feature | Superscript | Subscript |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Above the baseline | Below the baseline |
| Example | x2, 103, TM | H2O, CO2 |
| Common Uses | Exponents, ordinals, trademarks, footnotes | Chemical formulas, mathematical indices |
| Shortcut | Ctrl/Cmd + . | Ctrl/Cmd + , |
The keyboard shortcut for subscript in Google Docs is Ctrl + , (comma) on Windows or Cmd + , on Mac.
Common Use Cases for Superscript
1. Mathematical Exponents
When writing equations or mathematical expressions, superscript is essential for showing powers:
- Area formula: A = r2
- Einstein equation: E = mc2
- Quadratic: ax2 + bx + c = 0
2. Ordinal Numbers
Ordinal indicators show position in a sequence:
- 1st place, 2nd place, 3rd place
- The 21st century
- Her 50th birthday
3. Trademark and Copyright Symbols
Legal symbols often appear as superscript:
- Company NameTM
- Product®
- Article© 2026
4. Footnote References
Academic and professional documents use superscript numbers to reference footnotes:
- According to recent studies1, the results show...
- The author argues2 that this approach...
Note: Google Docs has a built-in footnote feature (Insert → Footnote or Ctrl+Alt+F). For academic papers, using this feature is better than manual superscript numbering because it automatically numbers and links your references.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Keyboard Shortcut Not Working?
- Check your keyboard layout: Some international keyboards may have different period key positions.
- Browser extensions: Certain extensions may override keyboard shortcuts. Try disabling them temporarily.
- Use the menu instead: If shortcuts fail, Format → Text → Superscript always works.
Superscript Looks Wrong in Certain Fonts?
Some fonts render superscript text better than others. Standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, and Georgia handle superscript well. If superscript appears too small or poorly positioned, try switching to a different font.
Need to Delete All Superscripts at Once?
Google Docs does not have a built-in "find and replace superscript" feature. However, you can:
- Select all text (Ctrl+A or Cmd+A).
- Clear formatting (Ctrl+\ or Cmd+\).
- Reapply only the formatting you need.
For documents with many superscripts, this might remove other formatting you want to keep, so use it carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the keyboard shortcut for superscript in Google Docs?
The keyboard shortcut for superscript in Google Docs is Ctrl+. (Ctrl and period) on Windows and Chromebook, or Cmd+. (Command and period) on Mac.
How do I remove superscript in Google Docs?
To remove superscript, select the superscripted text and press the same keyboard shortcut (Ctrl+. or Cmd+.) again. Alternatively, go to Format > Text > Superscript to toggle it off.
What is the difference between superscript and subscript?
Superscript raises text above the normal line (like in x²), while subscript lowers text below the line (like in H₂O). Superscript is used for exponents and ordinals, while subscript is common in chemical formulas.
Can I superscript numbers in Google Docs?
Yes, you can superscript any character in Google Docs including numbers, letters, and symbols. Simply select the character and use Ctrl+. (or Cmd+. on Mac) to apply superscript formatting.
How do I type the trademark symbol (TM) in Google Docs?
You can type TM and make it superscript using Ctrl+. Or, go to Insert > Special characters and search for "trademark" to insert the ™ symbol directly.
Does superscript work in Google Docs on mobile?
Yes, but the process differs. On the Google Docs mobile app, select your text, tap the Format button (A with lines), tap Text, then tap Superscript.
Summary
Adding superscript in Google Docs is simple once you know the methods:
- Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl+. (Windows) or Cmd+. (Mac) for instant superscript.
- Format menu: Format → Text → Superscript for a menu-based approach.
- Special characters: Insert → Special characters for pre-formatted symbols like ² or ™.
The keyboard shortcut is the fastest method and toggles superscript on and off. Use superscript for exponents, ordinal numbers, trademark symbols, and footnote references to make your documents look professional.
Create Professional Video Tutorials
Want to create video tutorials showing how to use Google Docs features? Deckoholic makes it easy with AI voiceover, zoom effects, and automatic editing.
Try Deckoholic Free