How to Type a Hyphen, En Dash, and Em Dash in Microsoft Word

Hyphens, en dashes, and em dashes look similar but serve different purposes in writing. Microsoft Word makes it easy to insert each one using keyboard shortcuts or built-in formatting features.

This guide explains how to type a hyphen, en dash, and em dash in Microsoft Word on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Difference Between Hyphen, En Dash, and Em Dash

Before typing them, it helps to understand the difference:

• Hyphen (-) is used to join words such as well-known or high-speed
• En dash (–) is used for ranges like 2010–2020 or pages 15–30
• Em dash (—) is used to create a break in a sentence

Each symbol has a specific purpose in formal writing.

How to Type a Hyphen in Word

The hyphen is the easiest to type.

Steps:

• Press the Hyphen key (-) on your keyboard
• It is usually located next to the 0 key

Word automatically inserts a standard hyphen.

How to Type an En Dash in Word

Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut

• Hold Ctrl + Minus key on numeric keypad

Make sure you use the numeric keypad, not the regular minus key.

Method 2: AutoFormat

• Type a word
• Type a space
• Type another word with a single hyphen between numbers
• Word may automatically convert it into an en dash

Example: 10-20 becomes 10–20 in some cases.

Method 3: Insert Menu

1. Click Insert
2. Select Symbol
3. Click More Symbols
4. Choose En dash
5. Click Insert

How to Type an Em Dash in Word

Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut

• Hold Ctrl + Alt + Minus key on numeric keypad

Method 2: AutoFormat

• Type two hyphens between words
• Word may automatically convert them into an em dash

Example: word--word becomes word—word

Method 3: Insert Symbol

1. Click Insert
2. Select Symbol
3. Choose More Symbols
4. Select Em dash
5. Click Insert

How to Enable AutoFormat for Dashes

If Word is not converting hyphens automatically:

1. Click File
2. Select Options
3. Click Proofing
4. Select AutoCorrect Options
5. Go to AutoFormat As You Type
6. Ensure dash replacement options are enabled

This allows Word to automatically convert double hyphens into em dashes.

Using Alt Codes for Dashes

You can also use Alt codes:

• En dash: Hold Alt + 0150
• Em dash: Hold Alt + 0151

Use the numeric keypad for Alt codes.

When to Use Each Dash

Use a hyphen for compound words.
Consider using an en dash for ranges and connections.
Use an em dash to create emphasis or a pause in a sentence.

Choosing the correct dash improves writing clarity and professionalism.

Final Thoughts

Typing hyphens, en dashes, and em dashes in Microsoft Word is simple once you know the shortcuts. Whether using keyboard shortcuts, AutoFormat, or the Insert menu, Word offers multiple ways to insert the correct dash. Understanding their proper usage ensures polished and professional documents.

FAQs

What is the shortcut for an em dash in Word
Press Ctrl + Alt + Minus on the numeric keypad.

How do I type an en dash quickly
Press Ctrl + Minus on the numeric keypad.

Why is Word not converting double hyphens into an em dash
AutoFormat may be disabled in Word options.

Can I use Alt codes for dashes
Yes, Alt + 0150 for en dash and Alt + 0151 for em dash.

Is there a difference between hyphen and dash
Yes, they have different lengths and grammatical uses.