How to Write Roman Numerals in Microsoft Word and Google Docs

Roman numerals may seem ancient, but they are still widely used today in formal writing, outlines, event names, and more. Whether you’re preparing an academic paper, creating a decorative title page, or simply formatting sections of a document, you might need to include Roman numerals in your Microsoft Word or Google Docs files.
This guide walks you through step-by-step instructions for writing Roman numerals accurately and efficiently in both platforms. You’ll also learn how to format them for style, use built-in tools, and troubleshoot common issues when working with Roman numerals.
Why Use Roman Numerals in Modern Documents
Roman numerals offer a sense of tradition, clarity, and order. Here are common use cases:
- Numbering pages for front matter in books (e.g., i, ii, iii)
- Formatting legal or academic outlines (e.g., Part I, II, III)
- Representing event names (e.g., Super Bowl LVIII)
- Denoting monarchs or popes (e.g., Henry VIII, Pope John Paul II)
Including Roman numerals in your digital documents can enhance visual appeal and preserve traditional formatting.
Part 1: Writing Roman Numerals in Microsoft Word
Method 1: Typing Directly
Microsoft Word supports direct input of Roman numerals using the keyboard:
- Use uppercase letters: I, V, X, L, C, D, M
- Example: Type “XII” for 12 or “MMXXIV” for 2024
Method 2: Using Word’s Outline or Numbered List Features
To format sections or headings using Roman numerals:
- Highlight the text you want to number.
- Go to the Home tab.
- Click the Numbering dropdown in the Paragraph section.
- Select a Roman numeral style (upper or lower case).
This method works for:
- Lists
- Subsections
- Outlines
Method 3: Using Fields to Auto-Convert Numbers
Word can insert Roman numerals as dynamic fields:
- Press Ctrl + F9 to insert a field.
- Type
= { =1234 \* Roman }
- Press F9 to convert 1234 into Roman numerals (MCCXXXIV).
This is helpful when automating number formats in templates.
Styling Roman Numerals
Once inserted, style Roman numerals like any text:
- Bold or italicize
- Change font or color
- Adjust spacing or alignment
Part 2: Writing Roman Numerals in Google Docs
Method 1: Typing Manually
Like Word, Google Docs supports direct input:
- Use uppercase characters: I, V, X, etc.
- Example: “XIX” = 19
Method 2: Using Numbered Lists with Roman Format
- Highlight the list items.
- Click the Numbered list icon in the toolbar.
- Click the dropdown arrow next to it.
- Choose Roman numeral style (I., II., III. or i., ii., iii.)
You can apply this formatting to outlines, chapter headings, or steps.
Method 3: Add-On Tools or Custom Scripts
For converting large numbers automatically, you can use Google Docs add-ons or Apps Script:
- Use the “Number to Roman” add-on
- Or insert a custom Apps Script to build a Roman numeral converter
This method is ideal for complex documents or high-volume formatting.
Styling Roman Numerals in Google Docs
Like standard text, you can style numerals:
- Apply heading styles
- Center-align or right-align
- Adjust font size or capitalization
Part 3: Formatting Tips and Best Practices
Be Consistent
Stick to one style: either upper-case (I, V, X) or lower-case (i, v, x) based on the document’s tone.
Use for Chapters and Parts
Roman numerals work well for:
- Book chapters (Chapter I, II, III)
- Legal sections (Article IV, Clause VI)
- Formal invitations (Section IX)
Avoid Mistakes
Common errors include:
- Using “IIII” instead of “IV”
- Typing “IC” for 99 instead of “XCIX”
Double-check your numerals for accuracy.
Part 4: Converting Arabic Numbers to Roman Numerals
Use online tools or calculators to convert any number:
- Input: 2024
- Output: MMXXIV
These tools are helpful when:
- Writing historical years
- Displaying birth years or anniversaries
- Creating formal inscriptions
For consistent use, consider pasting Roman numerals from the converter into Word or Docs.
Part 5: Advanced Formatting for Visual Impact
Roman Numeral Page Numbers in Word
- Go to Insert > Page Numbers
- Choose Format Page Numbers
- Select Roman numerals (i, ii, iii…)
Useful for:
- Book intros (Table of Contents, Preface)
- Appendices and indexes
Roman Numerals for Presentation Slides
Both Word and Docs can export to PowerPoint or Google Slides. Use Roman numerals to:
- Label sections (PART I, II, III)
- Add classical flair to titles
Part 6: Frequently Asked Question
Can I automatically convert numbers in Word/Docs?
Only in Word using fields. In Docs, you need an add-on or script.
What’s the Roman numeral for 2023?
MMXXIII.
Why use Roman numerals instead of regular numbers?
For elegance, tradition, and formal structure.
Are Roman numerals available in all fonts?
Yes, but some fonts look better than others. Try serif fonts like Times New Roman.
Conclusion
Roman numerals continue to play a valuable role in modern digital documents, especially in formal, academic, and historical contexts. Microsoft Word and Google Docs both offer simple ways to insert and format Roman numerals, whether you’re numbering chapters, creating outlines, or referencing historical dates.
By following the step-by-step instructions and tips in this guide, you’ll be able to confidently use Roman numerals in your documents for any occasion. And with online tools or formatting features, you can enhance their appearance while preserving historical accuracy.
Explore our Roman Numeral Converter to make the process even easier, and keep this guide handy for your next document formatting project!