SurveyEm dash — once used to stitch ideas together is now sort of avoided by writers. And one of the reasons is that OpenAI’s ChatGPT absolutely loves using this particular punctuation mark. Apart from this, the em dash never had a dedicated key and some writers initially struggled with finding ways to include it in their drafts as well. However, Microsoft is finally here with a solution.
The tech giant doesn’t want you to give up on, or forget about, the em dash. It recently announced that an easier shortcut for the em dash would be rolling out soon. Read on to know more.
Windows’ move to simplify the em dash
Until now, on Windows, you either had to remember the numeric code Alt + 0151, or use the emoji and symbols picker with Win + , then scroll through menus to find the em das. But going forward, things will get easier as Microsoft is taking the hassle out of the process.
As part of the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5761, the company introduced a direct keyboard shortcut for both the em dash (—) and the en dash (–). Going forward, you can simply press Win + – (minus) to insert an en dash, or Win + Shift + – to insert an em dash.
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This small addition makes a big difference. Writers, journalists, and students no longer need to memorise alt codes or break their momentum mid-sentence just to insert punctuation. Since the shortcut works across the system, it applies to every app — from Word and Outlook to messaging platforms, browsers, and even social media windows.
Before this update, most people resorted to less-than-ideal substitutes. Some used two hyphens (–) instead of a dash, while others stuck to commas or colons. By making the correct punctuation just a shortcut away, Microsoft seems to be encouraging people to actually use the character rather than bypass it.
However, there is one limitation worth noting: if you use Windows’ Magnifier accessibility tool, the Win + – shortcut will continue to control zooming out instead of typing a dash. Still, for the majority of users, this change streamlines an action that has been needlessly complicated for years.
What Microsoft said
Microsoft explained the update in detail on its Windows Insider blog post, confirming the new shortcuts and their purpose.
“We’re adding a new keyboard shortcut to make it easier for you to insert an En dash (–) or Em dash (—) while typing anywhere in Windows. Going forward, pressing WIN + Minus (-) will insert En dash, and WIN + Shift + Minus (-) will insert Em dash,” the post read.
This feature is currently available to users on the Dev Channel of the Windows Insider programme. As with most Insider features, it will gradually make its way to the general public once testing is complete.
Also read: Microsoft’s new AI agent for Windows PC: What all can it do?
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Divyanshi Sharma
Divyanshi Sharma is a media and communications professional with over 8 years of experience in the industry. With a strong background in tech journalism, she has covered everything from the latest gadgets to gaming trends and brings a sharp editorial lens to every story. She holds a master’s diploma in mass communication and a bachelor’s degree in English literature. Her love for writing and gaming began early—often skipping classes to try out the latest titles—which naturally evolved into a career at the intersection of technology and storytelling. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her exploring virtual worlds on her console or PC, or testing out a new laptop she managed to get her hands on. View Full Profile
