This blog covers following methods to type standard deviation symbol, sigma (σ) in Ms Word
1. Autocorrect Magic:
Type \sigma and hit space to get σ.
This is Ms Word’s hidden autocorrect feature and is like having a built in LaTeX. It makes writing Math (and equations) in Ms Word really easy. It contains most of the Math shortcut available in LaTeX.
One time setting to Activate Math Autocorrect feature outside math region.
By default, this feature is only active inside Equation Editor. However, following one time setting allows you to use it outside of equation editor too.
- Click Files → Options to open Word Options
- Navigate to Proofing and click AutoCorrect Options button to open Auto Correct window
- Navigate to Math Autocorrect tab
- Check the box against “Use Math Autocorrect options outside Math region“
- Click Ok and close all the dialogue boxed.
2. Symbol Library: Most common and intuitive way
- Go to the Insert tab and Click Symbol and choose More Symbols.
- Select Greek and Coptic subset. Search and click σ symbol.
- Click Insert and Close the Symbol Window.
3. Shortcut Sorcery: Alt X Method
Type 03C3 and press Alt + X immediately after it.
4. Font Wizardry: Only if you have dedicated Numpad
This Alt method works only if you have dedicated Number Pad in keyboard. In this method while hold Alt key and you type Alt code (numbers) of the symbol.
To get standard deviation symbol, sigma (σ), hold Alt key and type 229 using dedicated Numpad.
5. Copy-Paste Charm:
Sometimes simplicity wins. Copy the sigma (standard deviation) symbol (σ) from this page and sprinkle it into your document.
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C P Gupta is a YouTuber and Blogger. He is expert in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. His YouTube channel @pickupbrain is very popular and has crossed 9.9 Million Views.