Adding a degree symbol is useful for temperature, geographic coordinates, and academic writing. You can insert the degree symbol quickly using keyboard shortcuts, character maps, or HTML codes depending on your device and application.
This guide shows practical ways to produce the degree symbol across desktop platforms, mobile devices, and web forms. Follow the steps that match your workflow to ensure consistent, accurate results every time.
| Platform | Shortcut or Method | Key Combination | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Keyboard Shortcut | Alt + 0176 | Standard documents and spreadsheets |
| Windows | Character Map | N/A (GUI) | Precise symbol selection |
| Mac | Keyboard Shortcut | Option + Shift + 8 | Write-ups and emails |
| Mac | Emoji & Symbols Viewer | Control + Command + Space | Search and insert special characters |
| Android | Numeric Keypad | Long press 0 | Messaging and forms |
| iOS | Numeric Keypad | 123 → =# → long press 0 | Messages, Notes, and apps |
| HTML Web | HTML Entity | ° | Web pages and online forms |
Using Degree Symbol on Windows
Windows offers multiple reliable methods to insert the degree symbol without installing extra software. Choose the option that fits your workflow and comfort level.
Keyboard Shortcut with NumLock
Hold the Alt key and type 0176 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt. This generates a standard degree symbol in most Windows applications.
Using Character Map
Open Character Map from the Start menu, locate the degree symbol, select it, and copy it to the clipboard. Paste it into your document or message where needed.
Using Degree Symbol on macOS
macOS provides intuitive keyboard shortcuts and a visual character picker for quick access to the degree symbol.
Keyboard Shortcut
Press Option + Shift + 8 to insert ° directly. This method works in most text editors and is ideal for fast, repeated use.
Emoji & Symbols Viewer
Open the viewer with Control + Command + Space, search for degree, and double-click the symbol to insert it at the cursor position.
Using Degree Symbol on Mobile Devices
Mobile operating systems embed the degree symbol in their punctuation keyboards, making it easy to add on the go.
Android Long Press Method
Switch to the numeric keyboard, long press the 0 key, and select ° from the popup choices.
iOS Numeric Keyboard Navigation
Tap 123 to switch to numbers, tap =# to access symbols, then long press 0 and slide to choose the degree symbol.
Using Degree Symbol in HTML and Web Forms
When building web pages or filling online forms, use the HTML entity to ensure the symbol renders correctly across browsers and devices.
Type ° in your HTML code to display °. This method is reliable for developers and content creators who need consistent output on the web.
Best Practices for Using the Degree Symbol
- Use the correct symbol ° and avoid superscripts unless specified.
- Test symbols on different devices to ensure consistent display.
- Prefer standard keyboard shortcuts for speed and reliability.
- Use HTML entity ° for web content to maximize compatibility.
- Follow platform-specific guidelines for accessibility and localization.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why does my Alt code not produce the degree symbol on Mac?
The Alt code method is specific to Windows; on Mac, use Option + Shift + 8 or the Emoji & Symbols viewer instead.
Can I use the degree symbol in filenames on Windows or Mac?
While technically possible, it is safer to avoid special symbols in filenames to prevent compatibility issues with some software or file systems.
Will copying the degree symbol from a website work in my document?
Yes, copying ° from any source and pasting it into your document usually preserves the character, provided the font supports it.
How do I type the degree symbol on a laptop without a numeric keypad?
Use the on-screen keyboard in Windows or the Character Viewer on macOS to insert the symbol, or enable the numeric layout via your operating system settings.