How to Add Superscript and Subscript Text in Google Slides (Step-by-Step Guide)

Posted on by Michael Anderson
autoppt commenter
Michael Anderson
Former journalist turned tech writer with a passion for helping professionals enhance productivity through AI.

Introduction

Ever tried showing an exponent like x² or a chemical formula like H₂O in a presentation, only to have it look messy? Superscript and subscript can fix that. These easy formatting tricks make your Google Slides look sharp and professional. Superscript lifts text above the line. Subscript drops it below. They’re great for math equations, science formulas, or footnotes.
 
This article will show you how to add superscript and subscript in Google Slides. It’s super simple. I’ll explain the menu method and fast keyboard shortcuts. You’ll also get cool tips to make your presentations pop. Let’s dive in!

Why Use Superscript and Subscript?

Let’s first check why these formatting tricks are key. They really help your slides make sense. In a presentation, clarity is everything. If your exponents or formula numbers look like regular text, your audience might get confused. Superscript and subscript fix that by making things visually clear.
  • Superscript is ideal for:
    • Exponents (e.g., 10²).
    • Symbols like ™ or ©.
    • Ordinal numbers (1st, 2nd).
  • Subscript works great for:
    • Chemical formulas (e.g., CO₂).
    • Footnotes or references.
    • Math indices (e.g., x₁).
Using these in Google Slides can take your presentation from basic to brilliant, especially if you’re explaining technical stuff. Ready to learn how? Here we go!

How to Add Superscript in Google Slides

Adding superscript is super easy. Whether you’re highlighting an exponent or adding a trademark symbol, here’s what to do:

Using the Menu

  1. Open your Google Slides presentation.
  2. Click inside the text box where you want the superscript.
  3. Highlight the text you want to raise (like the “2” in x²).
  4. Go to the top menu and click Format.
  5. Hover over Text, then click Superscript.
 
How to Add Superscript and Subscript Text in Google Slides (Step-by-Step Guide)
That’s it! Your text will pop up above the line, nice and neat.

Keyboard Shortcut

Love a faster way? Try this:
  • Windows: Press Ctrl + . (Ctrl and the period key).
  • Mac: Press Command + .
One quick tap, and your text is formatted. It’s perfect when you’re working fast or editing a big presentation.

How to Add Subscript in Google Slides

Subscript is just as simple. It’s your go-to for chemical formulas or anything that needs to sit below the line. Here’s how:

Using the Menu

  1. Open your Google Slides presentation.
  2. Click the text box where you want subscript.
  3. Highlight the text to lower (like the “2” in H₂O).
  4. Click Format in the top menu.
  5. Hover over Text, then select Subscript.
How to Add Superscript and Subscript Text in Google Slides (Step-by-Step Guide)
Done! Your text will drop down, looking just right.

Keyboard Shortcut

Here’s the speedy version:
  • Windows: Press Ctrl + , (Ctrl and the comma key).
  • Mac: Press Command + ,
This shortcut is a time-saver, especially if you’re formatting a lot of scientific terms.
 

Tips and Tricks for Better Formatting

Now that you know the basics, let’s make your superscript and subscript even better. Here are some ideas to play with:
  • Keep It Readable: The tiny text can get hard to see, so don’t shrink the font too much. Stick to a size that’s clear for your audience.
  • Add Some Color: Highlight your superscript or subscript with a different color to make it pop—just don’t go overboard!
  • Use It Wisely: These formats are awesome for math and science, but too much can clutter your slide. Save them for when they really matter.
  • Check Your Font: Some fancy fonts don’t play nice with superscript or subscript. If it’s not working, switch to something basic like Arial or Calibri.
For example, in a chemistry presentation, use subscript to show H₂O clearly. Or, in a math lesson, superscript that x² to make your equation shine. Little details like these can impress your viewers.
 

Conclusion

Using superscript and subscript in Google Slides makes your presentations better fast. A few clicks or a quick shortcut formats exponents and formulas like an expert. These tricks help students, teachers, or workers. Your slides will look clear and grab attention.
 
So, next time you’re building a presentation in Google Slides, give superscript and subscript a try. Use the Format menu or shortcuts (Ctrl + . for superscript, Ctrl + , for subscript on Windows), and watch how much sharper your slides look. Have fun experimenting, and let me know how it goes!

FAQ: Adding Superscript & Subscript in Google Slides

Q1: What’s the fastest way to add superscript in Google Slides?
A: Use keyboard shortcuts! For Windows, press Ctrl + . (period). Mac users press ⌘ Command + .. Highlight your text first—like the exponent in x²—then tap the shortcut. Perfect for speeding up math equations or trademark symbols™.
 
Q2: Can I format chemical formulas like H₂O easily?
A: Absolutely! Subscript makes formulas crystal clear. Highlight the number/letter (e.g., the “2” in CO₂), then: → Go to Format > Text > Subscript or → Use shortcuts: Windows (Ctrl + ,) / Mac (⌘ Command + ,).
 
Q3: Why does my superscript/subscript look blurry or tiny?
A: If text appears too small:
  • Avoid reducing font size manually.
  • Switch to clean fonts like Arial or Calibri (fancy fonts often break formatting).
  • Increase the base text size slightly—superscript/subscript scales automatically for readability.
Q4: Can I use these shortcuts in Google Docs too?
A: Yes! The same keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl + . / Ctrl + ,) work in Google Docs. Ideal for adding footnotes, scientific notation, or ordinal numbers (1ˢᵗ, 2ⁿᵈ) across Google Workspace.
 
Q5: My subscript disappears after saving. How do I fix this?
A: This happens if pasting formatted text from other apps. Fix it by:
  1. Clearing formatting first (Format > Clear formatting).
  2. Reapplying subscript/superscript directly in Google Slides.
  3. Tip: Always type formulas directly into Slides for best results.
Q6: Are superscript/subscript supported in all Google Slides fonts?
A: Most work, but avoid decorative fonts. Stick to Google’s default fonts (e.g., Roboto, Lato) or classics like Times New Roman for reliable chemical formulas and exponents.
 
Q7: Can I add colored superscript for emphasis?
A: Definitely! After applying superscript/subscript:
  1. Highlight the formatted text (e.g., the “®” in BrandName®).
  2. Click Text color on the toolbar. → Use subtle colors (like dark gray) to avoid clutter.
Q8: Is there a mobile app method for this?
A: On the Google Slides iOS/Android app:
  1. Double-tap text to edit.
  2. Tap the Format icon (A with lines).
  3. Under “Text,” toggle Superscript or Subscript. Great for quick edits on the go!
Create worry-free presentations with AutoPPT . Turn your ideas into slides quickly—while keeping them 100% yours!
 
About AutoPPT: An easy use AI tool for students and professionals. Generate editable slides, customize designs, and focus on what matters—your unique ideas.
 
 
Try Autoppt for Free

Autoppt: Generate presentations in 1 minute!

Start Free Trail Now