Nabla Symbol (∇) in MS Word and its shortcut

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Microsoft Word has different ways to add symbol. Nabla symbol (∇) is one of the symbols that is commonly used in Math, Science and Engineering. In this article, we will explore different ways to type the Nabla symbol in Ms Word.

4 Methods for inserting nabla symbol including shortcut are as follows

Method 1: Using the Symbol Menu

This is one of the easiest and intuitive ways to get Nabla symbol in MS Word

  1. Place cursor where you want to insert Nabla symbol.
  2. Go to the “Insert” tab > “Symbol” button in the “Symbols” group and select “More Symbols”.
    insert symbol in word
  3. The “Symbol” dialog box will open. Make sure the “Symbols” tab is selected.
  4. Select “Font” as “normal text” and Subset as “Mathematical Operators” and click on ∇ symbol.
    nabla symbol word
  5. click on the “Insert” to insert Nabla symbol.
  6. Click “Close” to exit the “Symbol” dialog box.

Method 2: Using the Alt Code

Another way to type the nabla symbol in MS Word is by using the Alt code.

  1. Place your cursor where you want to insert the nabla symbol.
  2. Hold down the Alt key on your keyboard and type 8711.
  3. Release the Alt key.

Note: The Alt code method works only if you have a numeric keypad on your keyboard.

Method 3: Using AutoCorrect

If you frequently need to type the nabla symbol in MS Word, you can use Math Autocorrect shortcut.

To get Nabla symbol simply the following and hit space.

\nabla

This shortcut is quite easy to use.

This shortcut works in Equation Editor but you can enable it to use anywhere in Ms Word too using following one-time setting:

  1. Go to Files → Options to open Word Options
  2. Navigate to Proofing and click AutoCorrect Options button to open Auto Correct window.
  3. Navigate to Math Autocorrect tab.
  4. Check the box against “Use Math Autocorrect options outside math region“
    enable math autocorrect option
  5. Click Ok and close all the dialogue boxed.

Now, whenever you type the specified text or characters, MS Word will automatically replace it with the nabla symbol.

Method 4: Alt X or Unicode Code

Type 2207 and press Alt+X immediately after it to get nabla symbol

Conclusion

Typing the nabla symbol (∇) in MS Word can be done using various methods, such as the Symbol menu, Alt code, or AutoCorrect. Choose the method that suits your needs and preferences. By following the steps mentioned in this article, you can easily insert the nabla symbol in your MS Word documents.