Inserting subscript numerals (2003 SR2)

[HopTurn]

Want to be able to type in simple chemical expressions without having to fiddle with tedious equation or chemical formula editing software. Windows XP Media Center's Character Map still does not contain a subscript 2, which means I cannot properly type in the chemical formula for water (H2O).

I currently have Word 97 SR2 but am considering obtaining a current version of Word. Does the current version of Word enable a quicker way to insert subscript numerals without having to use the equation editor plug-in?

[HansV]

The keyboard shortcut Ctrl+= toggles subscript on and off, so you could type a H, then Crtl+=, a 2, Ctrl+= again and finally an O.
Similarly, Ctrl++ (in other words, Shift+Ctrl+=) toggles superscript on and off.

[IanWilson]

In addition to what Hans has said, you can then save the common ones as autocorrect entries, so when you type H2O (without the subscript) you get it with the subscript automatically.

Ian