Easy Ways to Write Fractions in Microsoft Word

Fractions appear in many types of literature, from scientific and mathematical articles to financial statements and even recipes. But if you want a professional result, how to create mathematical fractions in Microsoft Word?

Microsoft Word is very versatile and has many capabilities. The most important thing is how well to understand how to use the tools that Microsoft Word provides. Inserting fractional values into your Word document is one of these fantastic features.

Fractions are the most commonly used choice when referring to mathematical answers to financial statements or recipes in Microsoft Word. You can easily type 1/2 to get a bigger number, but what if you want something neater and professional?

How to write fractions in Word

Writing fractions in Microsoft Word is easier than you think. There are several ways you can use it, such as:

  • Write fractions with AutoCorrect.
  • Use formatted fractional symbols.
  • Use the “Equation” tool to create custom fractions.

Type fractions as plain text in one line.

The easiest way to write fractions in Microsoft Word is to use a slash between the numerator and denominator:

You can write fractions like this……… 2/3……….

In most situations, especially in less formal writing, this way of writing fractions will suffice. However, some style standards require the use of fractional symbols, which look more professional.

Write fractions with AutoCorrect.

Microsoft Word has a variety of tools meant to help you while typing. Automatic formatting is one of the most useful. When you type a specific word or phrase, Word automatically corrects it.

If you enter a fraction, automatic formatting will change it to the appropriate special character. When you enter certain fractions, such as ¼, ½, ¾, Microsoft Word will automatically format them as symbols. For example, if you enter “1/2” in a Microsoft Word document, it will immediately change to “½” if automatic formatting is enabled.

word atuocorrect

Here’s how to enable and disable the AutoCorrect feature on fractions:

  1. Go to “File > Options”.
  2. Then in the dialog box, select and navigate to “Proofing > AutoCorrect”.
  3. Click the “AutoFormat As You Type” tab in the dialog box that appears.
  4. Check the option “Fractions (1/2) with fraction character (½)” to enable and delete for deactivation.

Write fractions using formatted symbols.

The AutoCorrect function mentioned above only works for common fractions. If Word’s automatic formatting options fail to convert fractions for you, you can enter special characters manually.

You can use symbols in Word for rarer fractions such as two-thirds or three-fifths.

word insert symbol

To use symbols or special characters in Microsoft Word you can do this by:

  1. Open your Microsoft Word document.
  2. Place the blinking cursor in the position where you want to insert the fraction symbol.
  3. On the ribbon, select the “Insert” tab.
  4. Then, click the “Symbol > More Symbols” button.
  5. In the “Symbol” dialog box, select the “(normal text)” Font and the “Number Forms” Subset.
  6. Select the fraction you want.
  7. Click the “Insert” button.

Use the “Equation” tool to create custom fractions.

Microsoft Word also features the Equation tool, which includes the option to create custom fractions. The Equation tool is a very outstanding feature, you can create all fractional models easily.

To use “Equation” in Microsoft Word you can do by:

  1. Open your Microsoft Word document.
  2. Place the blinking cursor in the position where you want to insert the fraction symbol.
  3. On the ribbon, select the “Insert” tab.
  4. Then, click the “Equation > Insert New Equation” button.
word insert equation
  1. On the ribbon, click the “Fraction” button and select the fractional model you want.
word insert equation fraction
  1. In the box that appears, add the numerator and denominator.

This is the best option if you are using complex fractions as part of the equation. Writing fractions with equations in Microsoft Word has several advantages, including:

  1. Ease and speed: Using the equation feature in Microsoft Word, you can easily write fractions and other mathematical symbols quickly and easily.
  2. Consistency and accuracy: By using the equation feature, you can ensure that every fraction you write has a consistent and accurate format.
  3. Professional look: Fractions written with equations in Microsoft Word will have a professional and neat look, making it easier for readers to read and understand.
  4. Ease of editing: If you need to edit a shard you’ve written, you can do it easily without the need to delete or rewrite the entire shard.
  5. Can be turned into images: Fractions written with equations in Microsoft Word can be turned into images that can be used outside of Word documents, for example for insertion into presentations or PDF documents.

By using the equation feature in Microsoft Word to write fractions, you can save time, improve consistency and accuracy, and achieve a more professional, easy-to-change look.

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