How to Easily Create a Degree Symbol: A Complete Guide

I. Introduction

Have you ever tried to type a temperature or a geographical coordinate on your computer or mobile device, only to find it difficult to create a degree symbol? The degree symbol, often represented as °, is used to denote degrees of measurement. It is a vital symbol that you may need to use in your daily work or studies. Knowing how to create this symbol is essential, especially if you communicate frequently in scientific, technical, or medical fields.

II. Keyboard shortcuts

Windows users can create a degree symbol using a handy keyboard shortcut that involves pressing the Alt key and a specific combination of numbers. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Make sure your keyboard is Num Lock enabled.
2. Place your cursor where you want to type the degree symbol.
3. Press and hold the Alt key on your keyboard.
4. Using the numeric keypad, type the numbers 0176, then release the Alt key.
5. The degree symbol should now appear where your cursor was placed.

III. Symbol tool in Microsoft Word

If you’re using Microsoft Word, you can create a degree symbol using the Symbol tool. Here’s how:

1. Open Microsoft Word and place your cursor where you want to type the degree symbol.
2. Click on the “Insert” tab on the toolbar and then click on “Symbol”.
3. Choose “More Symbols” and scroll down until you find the degree symbol (°).
4. Select the symbol you want to use and click “Insert”. The symbol will now appear where your cursor was placed.

IV. Mac keyboard shortcut

Mac users can create a degree symbol using a simple keyboard shortcut that involves pressing the Option and Shift keys. Here’s how:

1. Make sure your cursor is in the right place where you want to type the degree symbol.
2. Press and hold the Option and Shift keys on your keyboard.
3. Type the number 8 on your keyboard.
4. Release the Option and Shift keys.
5. The degree symbol (°) will now appear where your cursor was placed.

V. Mobile device solutions

If you frequently use your mobile device, there are a couple of ways to create a degree symbol. Most mobile devices come with built-in keyboard apps that let you add different symbols, including the degree symbol, to your texts or emails. Here are some examples of how to create a degree symbol on iPhone and Android devices:

• iPhone: When using the native iOS keyboard, tap and hold the zero (0) key. A pop-up menu will appear, showing the degree symbol; tap the symbol to add it to your text.
• Android: When using the Gboard keyboard, long-press the number “0” to access additional symbols. Swipe left to find the degree symbol and tap to add it to your text.

Alternatively, you can use third-party keyboard apps that offer a wide range of symbols and characters, including the degree symbol.

VI. Specialized software or apps

If you need to use the degree symbol frequently, you may want to consider using specialized software or apps that allow quick and easy access to the symbol. Here are some examples of the best software and apps to create degree symbols:

• Character Map: A utility included with Windows that provides easy access to a range of symbols and characters, including the degree symbol.
• UnicodePad: A free Android app that offers a comprehensive character map and search tool.
• Type Degree Symbol: An iOS app that lets you copy and paste the degree symbol into your texts, emails, or documents with just one tap.

These apps and software are easy to download and install from their respective app stores or websites.

VII. Dedicated keyboards

Some keyboards come with a dedicated key for the degree symbol. If you frequently type temperature, weather, or geographical information, a dedicated keyboard might be a good option to consider. Here are some examples of keyboards with degree keys:

• Logitech Craft Keyboard: This keyboard features a customizable dial that can be programmed to perform different functions, including inserting the degree symbol.
• Das Keyboard 5Q: This keyboard includes a number pad with the degree symbol already printed on one of the keys.

While a dedicated keyboard can be a convenient option, it may not be cost-effective or ergonomic for everyone.

VIII. Copy and paste

Another easy way to create a degree symbol is to copy and paste it. Here’s how:

1. Find a degree symbol (°) on a website, document, or email that you want to copy.
2. Select the degree symbol with your mouse or trackpad.
3. Press “Ctrl+C” on Windows or “Cmd+C” on Mac to copy the symbol.
4. Place your cursor where you want to paste the symbol.
5. Press “Ctrl+V” on Windows or “Cmd+V” on Mac to paste the symbol.

The copy and paste method is quick and straightforward, but it may not be practical if you need to use the symbol frequently or don’t have access to a previous document or website with the symbol.

IX. Conclusion

Congratulations, you are now equipped with several methods to create a degree symbol! Knowing how to create a degree symbol is not only useful but also essential if you work frequently with technical and scientific data. Whether you choose to use keyboard shortcuts, symbol tools, mobile device solutions, specialized software or apps, dedicated keyboards, or copy and paste, the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.