How to Use Subscript and Superscript in OneNote for Android
Question details
The user needs to know how to apply subscript and superscript text formatting within the OneNote application on an Android device.

- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- Android
- Scenario
- Typing mathematical equations, chemical formulas, or formatted text notes on an Android tablet or smartphone.
- Observed behavior
- Standard desktop keyboard shortcuts for subscript and superscript do not work on Android, requiring the user to locate specific formatting commands within the mobile app interface.
Ensure you have the latest version of the Microsoft OneNote app installed from the Google Play Store, as older versions may lack advanced font formatting features.
Use the Mobile Text-Formatting Menu
Access the built-in font options in the OneNote Android app to apply subscript and superscript formatting manually.
Since keyboard shortcuts like 'Ctrl + =' are not reliably supported on the Android version of OneNote, formatting must be applied using the application's native toolbar.
Launch the OneNote app on your Android tablet or smartphone and open the specific note you want to edit, or create a new one.
Tap on the screen where you want to insert the formatted text, or double-tap to highlight existing text you wish to format.
Tap the 'Format' button in the toolbar menu, then tap the 'Aa' icon to reveal the extended font formatting options.
Tap the superscript (x²) or subscript (x₂) button to apply the formatting to your selected text.

Format Documents Easily on Android with WPS Office
If your current mobile app lacks the advanced formatting tools you need, try WPS Office. It provides comprehensive rich text editing on Android, including easy subscript and superscript options, while maintaining perfect compatibility with desktop document formats.
- 1. Install the app: Download WPS Office from the Google Play Store and open a new Document.
- 2. Select your text: Type your mathematical or chemical formula and highlight the specific characters to format.
- 3. Apply formatting: Tap the 'Tools' menu, navigate to the 'Home' tab, select 'Font', and choose the Subscript or Superscript icon.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why aren't my keyboard shortcuts for superscript working on my Android tablet?
Android operating systems handle keyboard inputs differently than Windows or macOS. Physical or virtual keyboard shortcuts designed for the desktop version of OneNote (like Ctrl + Shift + +) are often not supported, meaning you must use the mobile app's touch menu.
Can I use subscript and superscript on a smartphone version of OneNote?
Yes, as long as your app is updated. The formatting tools are available on both Android tablets and smartphones, though the toolbar layout may be more condensed on a phone screen. Look for the 'Aa' icon to find these options.
What should I do if the 'Aa' font button is completely missing?
First, check the Google Play Store to ensure your OneNote app is fully updated. If the option is still absent, your specific device model may have compatibility limitations. In this case, switching to an alternative app like WPS Office can provide the missing formatting tools.




