Introduction
Have you ever needed to type the degree symbol (°) but didn’t know how? It’s a symbol commonly used in various applications, including academic writing, weather reports, and cooking. Typing it correctly saves time and makes your work look more professional. This article will guide you through different methods for typing the degree symbol, show you where it’s relevant, and explore its history and relevance.
How to Type the Degree Symbol
There are several ways to type the degree symbol, including using keyboard shortcuts, copy-pasting, and using Character Map/Viewer. Let’s explore each method step-by-step.
Using keyboard shortcuts
On Windows, use either Alt+0176 or Alt+248 to type the degree symbol. On a Mac, use the Option+Shift+8 key combination. In Microsoft Word, you can also use the shortcut Ctrl + @, Spacebar, and then type “degree” in English, Spanish, or Portuguese to display the degree symbol.
Using Character Map/Viewer
If you can’t remember the keyboard shortcuts or need a symbol not available on your keyboard, using Character Map on Windows or Character Viewer on Mac is a good alternative. In Windows, open the Start menu and search for “Character Map.” In Mac, open the Character Viewer by clicking on the “Edit” menu in most applications and selecting “Special Characters.” Select the degree symbol and copy-paste it into your document.
Copy-pasting from websites/documents
If you find the degree symbol in a website or document, copy and paste it into your document. It’s an easy and quick method. However, this method may not work if you need to type the symbol multiple times or in different applications.
Remembering keyboard shortcuts and using Character Map/Viewer can save you precious time. Experiment with different methods to find which works best for you.
Applications and Platforms Where Typing the Degree Symbol is Relevant
The degree symbol is relevant in various fields where precise measurement and temperature are essential. For example, in academic writing, you need to use the degree symbol while stating temperature, angles, and geographical coordinates to show accuracy. In meteorology and cooking, the degree symbol is used to denote temperatures. In physics, the degree symbol is used to show the degree of freedom of particles. In medicine, it’s used to measure cancer stage and growth. So, it’s valuable to know how to type the degree symbol when working in these fields.
When using different applications, you’ll need to practice different methods for typing the degree symbol. Here are some examples:
Microsoft Word and Excel
In Microsoft Word and Excel, you can use the shortcut Ctrl + @, spacebar, and then type “degree” in English, Spanish, or Portuguese to display the degree symbol. Alternatively, you can use the Alt+0176 keyboard shortcut.
Emails and Messages
Unfortunately, not all email and messaging applications support the degree symbol. You can use copy-pasting when composing emails or messages instead of trying to remember different keyboard shortcuts.
History and Relevance of the Degree Symbol
The origin of the degree symbol is unclear. Ancient Babylonian astronomers used a similar symbol to represent the Sun, dating back to 2000 BC. It’s also speculated that the degree symbol that we use today originated from this Babylonian symbol. However, over time, different variations and meanings were attached to the symbol.
In the 16th century, scientists used the symbol to denote the 1/360th part of a circle, called a degree. Nowadays, the degree symbol defines various angular measurements in trigonometry, physics, and astronomy.
The symbol’s standardization across different fields of knowledge is crucial for professionals who work across multiple domains. For example, in electrical engineering, scientists use degree Fahrenheit (°F) in resistance measurements, and the degree Celsius (°C) is used to denote temperature. Similarly, in different cuisines across the world, recipes show temperature in Fahrenheit, Celsius, or Kelvin.
Typing the Degree Symbol on Different Devices and Operating Systems
Typing the degree symbol is the same across most operating systems and devices. However, there may be some differences in their keyboard shortcuts. Here’s a comparison of some common operating systems:
Windows
Use Alt+0176 or Alt+248 to type the degree symbol on Microsoft Windows.
Mac
Use Option+Shift+8 to type the degree symbol on Mac.
IOS Device
Tap and hold the zero (0) key on the iOS keyboard to reveal a pop-up menu. Slide your finger to the degree symbol (°) and release.
Android Device
Tap the numbers key once, and the degree symbol will be visible on the top row, alongside other symbols.
Remembering these shortcuts across different devices and operating systems can be overwhelming. Taking some time to practice and remember them will help speed up your work process.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
There may be some problems that you encounter when typing the degree symbol. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Wrong orientation
Due to different character sets and fonts used in various software applications, the degree symbol may rotate and appear slanted. In most cases, you can select the symbol and change its orientation by choosing the “Font” or “Character” settings to change the angle of the symbol.
Not showing up at all
If the degree symbol is not showing up in a document, it may be due to the chosen font not supporting the symbol. Try changing the font to one that supports the degree symbol.
Conclusion
Typing the degree symbol is a valuable skill that’s relevant in multiple fields. There are various ways to type the symbol, including using keyboard shortcuts, copy-pasting, and using Character Map/Viewer. Knowing how to type the degree symbol correctly can make your work look more professional and save you time. By practicing different methods, you can easily remember them across different devices and applications. Remember that the degree symbol plays an important role in our daily life and being familiar with its use can make your work more precise.
