Guide to Typing the Degree Symbol (°) on a Computer

The degree symbol (°) is a small but essential symbol used in a variety of fields, such as mathematics, physics, and meteorology. Typing this symbol on a computer can sometimes be a challenge, especially if you are not familiar with the shortcuts or methods to do so. In this guide, we will explore different ways to type the degree symbol on both Windows and Mac computers.

Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

On a Windows computer, you can use a keyboard shortcut to quickly insert the degree symbol into your text. Here’s how:

1. Make sure your Num Lock key is turned on.
2. While holding down the Alt key, type the numbers 0176 on the numeric keypad.
3. Release the Alt key, and the degree symbol (°) will appear.

On a Mac computer, the process is slightly different:

1. Place your cursor where you want to insert the degree symbol.
2. Press and hold the Shift key, Option key, and the number 8 key simultaneously.
3. Release all three keys, and the degree symbol (°) will appear in your text.

Method 2: Using Character Map (Windows) or Character Viewer (Mac)

If you prefer a visual approach, both Windows and Mac provide tools that allow you to select and insert special characters like the degree symbol.

On Windows:

1. Open the Character Map application by typing “Character Map” into the search bar and selecting the application.
2. In the search box within the Character Map window, type “degree” and click on the symbol you wish to insert.
3. Click on the “Copy” button, and then paste the symbol (°) into your desired location.

On Mac:

1. Go to the menu bar and click on “Edit” followed by “Emoji & Symbols” or simply press “Control + Command + Space” simultaneously.
2. In the Character Viewer window, you can search for “degree” in the search box or locate it in the symbols list.
3. Click on the degree symbol (°) and then click on the “Insert” button to add it to your text.

Method 3: AutoCorrect or Text Replacement

Another convenient method, especially if you frequently need to use the degree symbol, is setting up an AutoCorrect or Text Replacement feature.

On Windows:

1. Open a text editor such as Microsoft Word or Notepad.
2. Navigate to the “AutoCorrect” or “Text Replacement” options in the application’s settings. The exact location may differ depending on the software you are using.
3. Set up a new replacement rule, so whenever you type a specific combination of characters (e.g., “deg”), it is automatically replaced with the degree symbol (°).

On Mac:

1. Open your System Preferences and select the “Keyboard” option.
2. Click on the “Text” tab and then click on the “+” button at the bottom left corner.
3. In the “Replace” field, type the combination of characters (e.g., “deg”) you want to be replaced with the degree symbol (°), and in the “With” field, paste the symbol.

With these methods, typing the degree symbol (°) on a computer becomes much more accessible. Whether you prefer keyboard shortcuts, character maps, or auto-correction features, you can effortlessly incorporate this symbol into your work. Now you can confidently express measurements, temperatures, or angles accurately and professionally.