Subscript text appears smaller and lower than the main text, making it useful for math and science documents. This guide teaches you how to type subscripts on Mac in Pages, TextEdit, or Microsoft Word, with or without keyboard shortcuts.
How to type subscripts on Mac
Follow these step-by-step methods based on the app you are using.
Method 1: Using Pages or TextEdit
- Open Pages or TextEdit on your Mac.
- Click Format in the menu bar at the top.
- Select Font from the dropdown menu.
- Click Baseline in the submenu.
- Select Subscript. Everything you type next will appear in subscript until turned off.
- To toggle subscript quickly, press ⇧ Shift + ⌘ Command + –.
- To disable subscript, go to Format → Font → Baseline and select Use Default.
Method 2: Using Microsoft Word
- Open Microsoft Word on your Mac.
- Click Open, New, or Recent in the sidebar to access your document.
- Click the Home tab at the top.
- In the font bar, click the X₂ button to enable subscript typing.
- Click the X₂ button again to turn off subscript.
- Alternatively, press ⌘ Command + = to toggle subscript on or off.
Pro tip: Practice typing formulas like H₂O or CO₂ to master subscript quickly, and combine it with superscript for complete chemical equations.
Mastering subscripts ensures your math, science, or technical documents look professional and accurate. It prevents errors in formulas that could confuse readers or lead to misunderstandings in academic or work settings.
Using these tools saves time compared to manual sizing and positioning, allowing focus on content. Plus, consistent formatting across apps like Pages, TextEdit, and Word keeps your workflow seamless on Mac.
