Select the text you want to format using the Type tool.
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Edit and format text
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Create superscripts and subscripts
Last updated on
Oct 22, 2026
Learn how to apply raised or lowered text formatting using Character or OpenType panel in Adobe Illustrator.
Format text as superscript or subscript for mathematical expressions, scientific notation, footnote references, and trademark symbols. The method depends on your font type:
- Regular fonts: Use the Character panel menu for automatic scaling and positioning
- OpenType fonts: Use the OpenType panel for specialized position options, including numerator and denominator styles designed for fractions
Apply superscript or subscript with regular fonts
Select Window > Type > Character.
Select the Character panel menu icon .
Select Superscript or Subscript.
The Character panel applies automatic scaling and baseline shift to create the superscript or subscript effect.
Apply position formatting with OpenType fonts
Select the text you want to format using the Type tool.
Verify that an OpenType font is selected in the Character panel.
Select Window > Type > OpenType.
Choose an option from the Position menu: select Superscript/Superior for raised characters, Subscript/Inferior for lowered characters, Numerator for fraction numerators, or Denominator for fraction denominators.
Add stylistic sets to a character style using the New Character Style dialog box. The OpenType panel works only with OpenType fonts.
Note
Numerator and Denominator options provide better typographic results than standard superscript or subscript formatting. Not all OpenType fonts include these specialized glyphs.
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