1-minute answer
Hyphen (-) joins words. En dash (–) shows a range (3–6pm). Em dash (—) sets off a clause—like this—or replaces a colon.
01 Step by step, per platform
A real, followable procedure for every platform — not a thin restatement of the shortcut.
Hyphen ( - )
- Joins compound words: well-known, mother-in-law.
- Sits on the number row, no shortcut needed.
En dash ( \xe2\x80\x93 )
- Shows ranges: pages 10–20, Monday–Friday.
- Windows: Alt+0150. Mac: Option+Hyphen.
Em dash ( \xe2\x80\x94 )
- Sets off a parenthetical thought—like this one—or replaces a colon.
- Windows: Alt+0151. Mac: Option+Shift+Hyphen.
02 FAQ
Does Word auto-convert hyphens to dashes?
Yes — typing word--word often autocorrects to an en dash, and word -- word (with spaces) to an em dash. This can insert the wrong one; check what actually landed.
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