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How to Put Square Root in Computer Calculator

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Calculating square roots on a computer calculator is straightforward once you know the correct method. Whether you're using Windows Calculator, macOS Calculator, or an online calculator, this guide will show you exactly how to input square roots and interpret the results.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Many computer calculators support keyboard shortcuts for entering square roots. These shortcuts can save time and prevent errors when performing multiple calculations.

Note: Keyboard shortcuts may vary slightly depending on your operating system and calculator application.

Windows Calculator

  • Press Alt + 2 to insert a square root symbol (√)
  • Press Alt + 8 to insert a superscript 2 symbol (²)
  • Press Alt + 9 to insert a superscript 3 symbol (³)

macOS Calculator

  • Press Option + V to insert a square root symbol (√)
  • Press Option + 2 to insert a superscript 2 symbol (²)
  • Press Option + 3 to insert a superscript 3 symbol (³)

Online Calculators

Most online calculators provide a square root button or function key that you can click. If you prefer keyboard input, look for the √ symbol on your keyboard or use the appropriate function key.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to calculate square roots on your computer calculator.

Using Windows Calculator

  1. Open the Calculator application from the Start menu
  2. Click on the "Scientific" view if it's not already selected
  3. Click the square root button (√) or press Alt + 2 to insert the symbol
  4. Enter the number you want to find the square root of
  5. Press the equals (=) button or press Enter to calculate the result

Using macOS Calculator

  1. Open the Calculator application from the Applications folder
  2. Click on the "Scientific" view if it's not already selected
  3. Click the square root button (√) or press Option + V to insert the symbol
  4. Enter the number you want to find the square root of
  5. Press the equals (=) button or press Enter to calculate the result

Using Online Calculators

  1. Open your preferred online calculator in a web browser
  2. Locate the square root function (it may be labeled √, sqrt, or have a dedicated button)
  3. Click the square root button
  4. Enter the number you want to find the square root of
  5. Click the equals (=) button or press Enter to calculate the result

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When calculating square roots, there are several common errors that users make. Being aware of these can help you get accurate results.

1. Forgetting to Close the Square Root Symbol

If you don't properly close the square root symbol (√), the calculator may not interpret your input correctly. Always ensure the symbol is properly closed after the number.

2. Using Negative Numbers

Square roots of negative numbers are not real numbers. If you enter a negative number, the calculator may display an error message or an imaginary number result.

The square root of a negative number is not a real number. For example, √(-9) = 3i, where i is the imaginary unit.

3. Mixing Up Square and Square Root

It's easy to confuse squaring a number (multiplying it by itself) with finding its square root. Remember that 9² = 81, while √81 = 9.

4. Rounding Errors

Some calculators may display rounded results. If you need precise calculations, consider using a scientific calculator or software that provides more decimal places.

Worked Examples

Let's look at some practical examples of calculating square roots on a computer calculator.

Example 1: Simple Square Root

Calculate √16

  1. Open your calculator
  2. Enter √16
  3. Press equals
  4. The result should be 4

Example 2: Decimal Square Root

Calculate √2.25

  1. Open your calculator
  2. Enter √2.25
  3. Press equals
  4. The result should be 1.5

Example 3: Complex Expression

Calculate √(16 + 9)

  1. Open your calculator
  2. Enter √(16 + 9)
  3. Press equals
  4. The result should be 5

FAQ

Can I calculate square roots of fractions?

Yes, you can calculate square roots of fractions. Simply enter the fraction in the format √(a/b) where a is the numerator and b is the denominator. For example, √(1/4) = 0.5.

What if I get an error when calculating a square root?

If you get an error, check that you've entered the square root symbol correctly and that you're not trying to calculate the square root of a negative number. If you're still having trouble, try using a different calculator or checking your input for typos.

How do I calculate the square root of a very large number?

For very large numbers, you may need to use a scientific calculator or software that can handle large numbers. Most standard calculators have limits on the size of numbers they can process.

Can I calculate square roots of numbers with exponents?

Yes, you can calculate square roots of numbers with exponents. For example, to calculate √(2³), you would first calculate 2³ = 8, then find √8 ≈ 2.828.