You will now have access to the square root button, as well as the (cube root) and x√y (custom root) buttons. 4. How to Use Square Root in Excel and Numbers

That’s it. Why ? The logic traces back to early computer logic and typewriter layouts where the "check mark" (often a V shape) and the root symbol shared a conceptual space. Regardless of the history, pressing Option+V instantly yields √.

This window is a museum of typography. By default, it shows you smiling piles of poo and airplane emoji. But that’s a trap. Click the window’s top-right corner to expand it. Then, in the left sidebar, scroll down to "Math Symbols."

Open System Settings on any Mac. Navigate to Keyboard. Look at the virtual representation of the physical device in front of you. Run your finger (or cursor) across the number row. Find the radical. You won’t.

Maybe you don't just want the symbol; you want to type something like "√25 = 5" without looking clunky.

The fastest way to type the square root symbol on a Mac is by using a simple keyboard shortcut. This works in almost any application, including Microsoft Word, Notes, and web browsers.