The em dash is a versatile punctuation mark that can add style and clarity to your writing. However, finding the best way to insert it into Microsoft Word can be difficult.
Fortunately, Word offers a quick automatic option to insert a script effortlessly. If that method doesn't suit your needs, don't worry: there are three other simple manual techniques you can use to ensure your documents look polished and professional.
Understanding the difference between an en dash and an em dash
The dash em and the dash en are two different punctuation marks used for various purposes.
Em Dash (—)
The em dash (—) functions as a comma, colon, or parenthesis. According to Merriam-Webster, you can highlight additional information, such as examples, explanations, or descriptive phrases. The em dash can also introduce a clause that explains or expands on something that precedes it.
When used in creative writing, an em dash can perform many functions, such as indicating a pause in thought, framing a phrase in parentheses, or even adding drama to a sentence.
An em dash is longer than an em dash or dash.
In hyphen (–)
The final dash, on the other hand, is used to indicate a range (pages 25-40) or to show a connection or contrast between words (Sydney-Tokyo flight). It is longer than an dash but shorter than an em dash.
4 Ways to Insert an Em Hyphen in Microsoft Word
There are four main ways to insert an em dash in Word.
1. Use Word's automatic formatting
To insert an em dash, type two dashes (using the minus key) immediately after the word where you want the em dash to appear. Then, type the next word after the dashes and press the space bar.
Word should automatically convert hyphens to an em dash between the two words in the text.
SEE: How to inspect your Word documents to ensure readability and compatibility
You should not insert spaces between words or hyphens, as this may cause Word to convert hyphens to the shorter dash instead of an em dash.
If this method doesn't work, you may need to check and enable Word's AutoFormat feature.
2. Use keyboard shortcuts
To insert an em dash using your keyboard in Windows, use the following keyboard shortcut:
Press Ctrl + Alt + – (on the numeric keypad)
If you're on a Mac, the keyboard shortcut is slightly different. In this case, you must use:
Press Shift + Option + –
3. Use the symbols menu.
Hyphens can be inserted using the Symbol menu in Word because it is a special character.
First, make sure the cursor is flashing at the position where you want to place the script in the document.
SEE: Word Alternatives That Are Exponentially Better and More Trustworthy
Go to the Insert tab on the Word menu bar ribbon and select the Symbol menu. In the drop-down menu, find “More Symbols” and “Special Characters” and then select the hyphen to insert.
4. Use Unicode
You can also insert an em dash using the Unicode 2014 value.
First, click where you want to insert the script in your document. Type the Unicode value “2014” and press Alt and X simultaneously. Word should convert 2014 to an em dash.
Em scripts can support your writing
Long dashes can be difficult to master in writing, but inserting them into a Word document doesn't have to be. By following one of these four simple methods, you can start adding dashes to text in Word today. Mastering this versatile punctuation mark can improve your writing, adding clarity, style, and emphasis where it matters most.
