AI → Word · Copy/paste

Question marks when pasting ChatGPT equations into Word: causes and fixes

Published Dec 14, 2025 · 5 · Updated Jan 05, 2026

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If Word shows “??”, diamonds, or broken symbols when you paste LaTeX from ChatGPT, here’s why it happens and the most reliable ways to fix it.

Quick tip Convert LaTeX (or AI-generated math) into native, editable Word equations (OMML).
LaTeX → OMML converter

Why it happens

AI tools often output math in LaTeX, but Word stores editable equations as OMML. When you paste raw LaTeX as text/HTML, Word may mis-handle characters and fonts, producing question marks or odd glyphs.

Fix A (recommended): convert the full document to native Word equations (OMML)

For many formulas (a long AI answer, homework set, thesis excerpt):

  1. Save the AI output (with LaTeX) into a .docx or .txt.
  2. Upload it to the LaTeX → Word converter.
  3. Download the DOCX with editable native equations (OMML).

Fix B: only 1–3 equations? Use Alt+=

In Word: Alt + = opens the equation editor. Paste/type inside it and convert to Professional form.

Related


Quick tip: If you are pasting many formulas (for example, a long AI answer), the most reliable approach is converting the full document into native Word equations (OMML) so you can edit it without formatting issues.

Root causes

Tip: For a complete workflow, see the LaTeX → OMML guide.

Fixes that work

  1. Re-paste as plain text.
  2. Switch the equation font to Cambria Math.
  3. Convert LaTeX to native OMML equations using the converter.

FAQ

Why does it work on one computer but not another?

Different fonts and Word versions can change rendering. Native OMML reduces variability.

Need to convert a .docx or .txt containing LaTeX? Use the converter and download a Word file with native editable OMML equations. LaTeX → OMML Converter More articles