How to Type Square Root Symbol √
Keyboard shortcuts for Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iPhone & Android. Type or copy the radical sign instantly.
Root & Math Symbols
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The square root symbol √ (also called the radical sign) is essential in mathematics, science, and engineering. It's used in equations, homework, technical documents, and educational content. Despite its common use, there's no square root key on standard keyboards.
This guide shows you how to type √ on every platform: Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iPhone, Android, and Linux. We also include related root and math symbols for quick reference.
All mathematical symbols on this page are Unicode characters — they work in any application, from word processors and spreadsheets to social media and messaging apps.
Square Root Symbol FAQ
The alt code for √ is Alt+251. Hold Alt, type 251 on the numeric keypad, then release. Num Lock must be enabled. This works in all Windows applications.
Press Option+V on Mac to type √ directly. This keyboard shortcut works in all applications — Safari, Pages, Numbers, and more. No Character Viewer needed.
The Unicode √ character doesn't include a bar over the expression. For properly formatted radicals like √(x+1), use a math equation editor: LaTeX (\sqrt{x+1}), Word's Equation Editor, or Google Docs (Insert → Equation).
On Windows, use Alt+8731 for ∛ and Alt+8732 for ∜. On Mac, use the Character Viewer (Control+Command+Space). On Chromebook/Linux, use Unicode 221B for ∛ and 221C for ∜. Or copy them from this page.
For the calculation, use =SQRT(number). For the symbol √ in a cell, use Alt+251 on Windows or paste it from this page. You can combine both: type √ followed by the number for display purposes.
The Unicode code point for √ is U+221A (SQUARE ROOT). In HTML, use √ or √. For ∛ (cube root), it's U+221B. For ∜ (fourth root), it's U+221C.