How to Type Prime and Double-Prime Marks in Word for Mac
Question details
The user needs to insert prime and double-prime symbols in Word for Mac using either the macOS Character Viewer or by turning off smart quote replacement.
- Product
- Word for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- The user is writing technical, mathematical, or measurement-related content that requires prime and double-prime symbols.
- Observed behavior
- Word for Mac may replace straight quotes with curly smart quotes, so the keyboard quote keys do not always create true prime or double-prime marks.
Decide whether you need prime and double-prime marks occasionally or frequently, because the best method differs. If you choose the keyboard method, be ready to change AutoCorrect settings in Word for Mac.
Insert Prime and Double-Prime Marks Using macOS Character Viewer
Best for occasional use when you want a quick visual insertion without changing Word settings.
The macOS Character Viewer is built into the system and works in Word for Mac without altering any auto-formatting options.
In Word for Mac, click Edit in the top menu bar, then choose Emoji & Symbols.
In the Character Viewer search box, type prime, then double-click the prime or double-prime symbol to insert it at the cursor.
Turn Off Smart Quotes to Type Prime and Double-Prime Marks with Keyboard Keys
Best for frequent typing when you want the standard quote keys to produce prime marks directly.
Use WPS Office on Mac as a Free Word Alternative for Prime and Double-Prime Marks
WPS Office is a free, lightweight Office suite for Mac that opens and saves Word documents with full .docx compatibility, a familiar interface, and easy symbol or AutoCorrect tools for technical typing.
- 1. Install WPS Office for Mac: Go to the WPS Office download page and install the free Mac version.
- 2. Open your Word document: Launch WPS Writer and open the .docx file you created in Word for Mac.
- 3. Insert prime marks: Use Insert > Symbol or adjust AutoCorrect options in WPS Writer to type prime and double-prime marks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a prime mark and a double-prime mark?
A prime mark is a single straight leading mark often used for feet or minutes, while a double-prime mark is a double straight mark often used for inches or seconds. In Word for Mac, you can insert either symbol from Character Viewer or type them with straight quote keys.
Why do my prime marks turn into curly quotes in Word for Mac?
Word for Mac has an AutoFormat As You Type setting called Replace straight quotes with smart quotes. It changes straight quote characters into curly typographic quotes, so you need to clear that checkbox in Tools > AutoCorrect Options.
Can I type prime and double-prime marks without changing Word settings?
Yes. Use Edit > Emoji & Symbols to open macOS Character Viewer, search for prime, and insert the symbol directly into the document. This method does not change AutoCorrect settings.
Will turning off smart quotes affect all Word for Mac documents?
The setting applies to Word for Mac AutoFormat behavior on that installation, so new documents generally keep straight quotes unless you re-enable smart quotes or apply different formatting.
