Math
How to type N-ary summation (∑)
Copy the character, or use the shortcut that matches your keyboard and app.
Windows
No classic numeric Alt code. Copy the character or use Win + . and search the name.
Mac
Option + W
Microsoft Word
Type 2211 then Alt + X
Google Docs
Insert → Special characters → sum
How to insert it
Copy
Click the keycap, then paste with Ctrl+V or Cmd+V.
Alt code
This character has no short Alt code. Copy it instead.
Code
Use the Unicode, HTML, CSS, or JS value below in documents and stylesheets.
- Unicode
U+2211- HTML decimal
∑- HTML hex
∑- CSS
\2211- JavaScript
\u{2211}
Related
About the N-ary summation
The N-ary summation (∑, U+2211) the n-ary summation sign (∑) — adds up a whole series in one compact symbol, the signature of statistics and calculus.
Mathematical symbols live or die by precision — a lookalike won't do. These get typed constantly in school documents, spreadsheets, and technical writing, which is why the Alt code and Unicode value in the reference table are worth memorizing.
The copy button above is fastest for a one-off. If you need ∑ often, use its Unicode value 2211 — in Word, type it and press Alt+X; on Windows, the Character Map app (search "Character Map" in Start) inserts it into any program.
In Unicode it lives in the Mathematical Operators block, so it behaves the same everywhere Unicode is supported — which today means virtually every device, app, and browser. Related symbols: Pi, Infinity, Plus-minus.
N-ary summation quick reference
| Symbol | ∑ |
|---|---|
| Name | N-ary summation |
| Unicode | U+2211 |
| Alt code | — |
| HTML decimal | ∑ |
| HTML hex | ∑ |
| HTML entity | ∑ |
| CSS | \2211 |
| JavaScript | \u2211 |
| URL encoded | %E2%88%91 |
Compatibility: Displays correctly on iPhone, Android, Windows and Mac.
How to type ∑ on your phone
iPhone / iPad
iPhones have no Alt codes. The fastest way is to copy the symbol above and paste it where you need it. To reuse it often, save it as a text replacement: go to Settings → General → Keyboard → Text Replacement, tap +, paste the symbol into Phrase and give it a Shortcut.
Android
On Gboard, tap ?123 then =\< to open the symbols keyboard — many symbols hide under a long-press on related keys. Otherwise just copy the symbol above and paste it; it works in every app.