How to Insert a Check Mark in Word (2026)
A check mark (✓) is a symbol, not a keyboard key, so Word offers a few ways to drop one in: the Symbol menu, the Wingdings font, a character code, or an AutoCorrect shortcut. Here’s each, including the boxed ✓ for checklists.
1. Insert from the Symbol Menu (Windows & Mac)
- Click where you want the check mark.
- Insert > Symbol > More Symbols.
- Set the Font to Wingdings.
- Select the check mark (character code 252) or the boxed check (254), click Insert, then Close.
Recently used symbols appear directly under Insert > Symbol next time.
2. Use a Character Code
- Switch the font to Wingdings.
- Type 0252 and press Alt+X (Windows) — it converts to ✓. Use 0254 for a boxed check.
Or hold Alt and type 0252 on the numeric keypad with Wingdings active.
3. Set Up an AutoCorrect Shortcut
To type a check mark anywhere with a keyword:
- Insert a check mark once (Step 1) and copy it.
- File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options.
- In Replace, type something like
(check); in With, paste the ✓. - Click Add > OK.
Now typing (check) becomes ✓ automatically.
4. Word for the Web
Word for the web has no Symbol dialog. Copy a ✓ from elsewhere and paste it, or use the Insert > Emoji/Symbol option where available.
5. Troubleshooting
I get a random letter instead of a check mark
The font reverted from Wingdings. Select the character and set its font back to Wingdings.
The check mark turns into a box when shared
The recipient’s system substituted the font. Use the Unicode check mark ✓ (Insert > Symbol > font: (normal text), Segoe UI Symbol) so it isn’t font-dependent.
Alt+X did nothing
Make sure you typed the code immediately before pressing Alt+X, with no space, and that the font is Wingdings.
I need clickable boxes, not a symbol
Use a content-control checkbox instead — see how to insert a checkbox.
Related Word guides: How to insert a checkbox · How to add superscript · How to insert a footnote · How to add a drop-down list · How to create a table
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