Square Root Symbol (√)
To type the square root symbol (√): press ⌥V (Option+V) on a Mac, or hold Alt and type 251 on the numeric keypad on Windows. Use it in maths like √16 = 4.
| Action | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Square root √ | ⌥V | Alt+251 | |
| √ (copy) | √ | √ |
The square root symbol on Mac vs Windows
The square root symbol (√). On a Mac press ⌥V. On Windows, hold Alt and type 251 on the numeric keypad (NumLock on), then release. No number pad? Copy the √ above, or use the Windows emoji panel Win+..
Where you use √
Write roots like √16 = 4 or √2 ≈ 1.414. The radical sign √ covers the number after it; for longer expressions people add a bar or parentheses, e.g. √(a² + b²). It reads as "the square root of".
FAQ
What is the square root symbol shortcut?
On a Mac press ⌥V. On Windows hold Alt and type 251 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt.
How do I type √ without a number pad?
Copy the √ above, or on Windows press Win+. for the emoji panel and search "root". On Mac ⌥V works on any keyboard.