How to Write the Equals = in Cursive
The equals sign — two short parallel strokes — was introduced by the Welsh mathematician Robert Recorde in 1557 because, as he put it, 'no two things can be more equal'. In cursive and brush lettering, it appears in equations, in equality and inclusivity branding, and in playful formulas like 'You + Me = Us'. The challenge is keeping the two strokes truly parallel and evenly spaced.
The Equals (=) in 30 Cursive Fonts
See how the equals looks across every cursive font in our collection. Each font gives the symbol a unique personality — from formal calligraphic scripts to casual modern handwriting.
Tangerine
Dancing Script
Great Vibes
Parisienne
Sacramento
Kaushan Script
Alex Brush
Caveat
Mr De Haviland
Satisfy
Allura
Yellowtail
Arizonia
Bad Script
Berkshire Swash
Marck Script
Petit Formal Script
Pinyon Script
Italianno
Niconne
Quintessential
Style Script
Carattere
Ephesis
Luxurious Script
Bilbo Swash Caps
How to Write the Equals (=) Step by Step
Draw two short horizontal strokes of identical length, one above the other, separated by a gap roughly equal to the stroke thickness. Both lines should sit symmetrically around the midline of the x-height. For italic script, both strokes should share the same slight slant.
- ✗ Drawing the two strokes at different lengths
- ✗ Spacing the strokes too far apart so the symbol reads as two dashes
- ✗ Spacing them too close so they merge into a single thick line
- ✗ Slanting only one of the two strokes, breaking parallelism
- ✗ Sizing the equals sign too large compared to the surrounding digits
Stylistic Variations of the Equals
- Standard equals — two horizontal lines, used universally
- Slanted equals — both lines share an italic slant, used inside cursive script
- Triple-bar equals (≡) — used in mathematics to mean 'identical to' or 'congruent'
- Approximately equal (≈) — two wavy lines, used for approximation
- Decorative equals — ornamental variants used in lettering pieces and quote design
Where the Equals (=) Is Used
Real-world contexts where this symbol earns its place in cursive lettering.
- =Mathematical equations on classroom charts and tutoring posters
- =Inspirational quote lettering ('You + Me = Us', 'Hard work = Success')
- =Equality and inclusivity branding
- =Recipe ratios and measurements ('1 cup flour = 120 g')
- =Brand taglines that summarise a value proposition with a quick formula
Practice Tips for the Cursive Equals
- 1Drill rows of paired horizontal strokes to train your eye for parallelism.
- 2Use a guide line for the first few attempts — both strokes should sit equidistant from it.
- 3Practise the equals sign inside playful equations ('Coffee + Quiet = Bliss') to feel its rhythm.
- 4Match the slant of the equals sign to the surrounding letters or numerals.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cursive Equals
Who invented the equals sign?
How do you letter an equals sign in cursive?
Can I use = instead of 'is' in lettering?
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