When referring to mathematical solutions for financial reports, or recipes in Microsoft Word, fractions are the most common option. Now, you can easily type 1/2 and be satisfied with the larger numbers, but what if you want something more polished and professional? That’s where fractions come into play, so instead of 1/2, it would be ½.
The question is, then, how to automatically format fractions in Word without doing it manually. Well, if you’re using the latest version of Microsoft Word, chances are you’re fine because the automatic formatting of fractions is set to default.
How to write Fractions in Word
Writing fractions in Microsoft Word is easier than you might think. If you want to learn how then take the time to follow the solutions explained here.
- Write fractions using AutoCorrect
- Insert fractions by means of symbols
- Create fractions with an equation
1] Write fractions using AutoCorrect
The latest version of Microsoft Word on both Windows and Mac is capable of automatically changing common fractions to their respective symbols. Once the AutoCorrect feature is enabled, all you have to do is type the numbers with a forward slash in the middle, then hit the Space key to see the changes.
- Microsoft Windows
To get this done on a Windows operating system, you must first open the Word application.
After that, click on File, then select Options right after.
Click on the Proofing category located on the left panel.
Look for AutoCorrect Option and select it.
Next, you must click the AutoFormat As You Type tab.
Under the Replace as you type section, please tick the box that reads, Fractions (1/2) with fraction character (½).
Finally, click on the OK button to complete this task on a Windows computer.
- Apple Mac
When it comes down to a Mac, you must open Microsoft Word.
Then, please click on Word > Preferences via the menu bar.
Select the option that reads, AutoCorrect.
Click on the tab with the name, AutoFormat As You Type.
Finally, check the box with the text, Fractions With Fraction Character, and that’s it; you’re done.
2] Insert fractions by means of symbols
Here’s the thing, it is possible to write advanced fractions via the AutoCorrect function. At least, it is not possible at the time of writing. You will have to use Special Characters and Letters.
3] Create fractions with an equation
If the above methods are not good enough for you, then using equations is a great way to write fractions. For that you will have to use the Equation Mode in Word.
READ: How to display Numbers as Fractions in Excel
How do you put fractions in Word?
Click in the area where you want to insert the fraction symbol. From there, press the ATL + = buttons to add the Equation tool. Alternatively, you can navigate to the Insert tab, then select the Equation symbol via the Symbols group to reveal the equation gallery. Choose the fraction, and it will be added to the document.
How to make a fraction on a keyboard?
The standard method right now for typing fractions on a keyboard in Word is to enter the numerator and the denominator separated by the / symbol. If the right feature is enabled in Word, then the tool should automatically transform the numbers into proper fractions.