How to type an em dash in Word
The quickest em dash in Word for Windows is Ctrl + Alt + Num − (the minus key on the numeric keypad). Word also turns two hyphens into an em dash automatically: type word--word and a space. On a Mac, press Option + Shift + -.
Quick answer
Windows: Ctrl + Alt + keypad minus, or Alt + 0151. Mac: Option + Shift + -.
Step by step
Type the first word
Type the word before the break, with no space after it.
Type two hyphens
Type -- directly after the word.
Type the next word and a space
When you type the following word and press space, Word’s AutoFormat replaces the two hyphens with — .
Or use the shortcut
Press Ctrl + Alt + Num minus at any point to insert — immediately, without relying on AutoFormat.
How the automatic dash works
The replacement comes from File → Options → Proofing → AutoCorrect Options → AutoFormat As You Type, where “Hyphens (--) with dash (—)” is ticked by default. It behaves in two ways. Two hyphens between words with no spaces (then--suddenly) become an em dash. A single hyphen with a space on each side (1990 - 1995) becomes an en dash, –. If Word is not converting, that box has been unticked, or you typed the hyphens after a space.
To undo one replacement, press Ctrl + Z immediately after it happens. Word restores the hyphens and leaves the setting alone.
Other ways to insert —
- Alt code: hold Alt and type 0151 on the keypad.
- Unicode: type 2014 and press Alt + X.
- Menu: Insert → Symbol → More Symbols → Special Characters tab. Em Dash and En Dash are at the top, with their shortcuts listed beside them.
The en dash shortcut
For ranges such as 9–5 or pages 12–18 you want the shorter en dash. In Word for Windows it is Ctrl + Num −, without Alt. On a Mac it is Option + -. If you are unsure which dash a sentence needs, our guide to em dash vs en dash vs hyphen explains the rules with examples.
Spaced or closed?
American style (Chicago, AP for most uses) closes the em dash up—like this. Many British publishers prefer a spaced en dash – like this – instead. Pick one and stay consistent through the document. The em dash reference page lists the codes for HTML and other apps, and em dash in Google Docs covers the browser equivalent.
Frequently asked questions
What if my laptop has no numeric keypad?
Use AutoFormat (word--word then space), type 2014 then Alt + X, or assign your own shortcut in Insert → Symbol → More Symbols → Special Characters → Shortcut Key.
Why does Word give me an en dash instead of an em dash?
You typed spaces around a single hyphen. That pattern becomes an en dash. Type two hyphens with no spaces to get an em dash.
How do I stop Word changing hyphens into dashes?
Untick “Hyphens (--) with dash (—)” under AutoCorrect Options → AutoFormat As You Type.
What is the em dash shortcut in Word for Mac?
Option + Shift + hyphen. Option + hyphen gives the en dash.