The fastest way: Alt code on Windows

On Windows, hold Alt and type 0176 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt. The degree symbol (°) appears when ready. This works in Word, Outlook, and most other programs.

The numeric keypad is the separate number pad on the right side of most full-size keyboards. If you are on a laptop without a dedicated keypad, you may need to enable Num Lock and use the number keys built into your letter keys — check your keyboard manual for which keys double as numbers.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows users can type Alt+0176 on the numeric keypad to insert a degree symbol when ready.
  • Mac users should press Option+Shift+8 to type the degree symbol in any program.
  • Word's Insert menu offers a Symbol dialog where you can search for the degree symbol and insert it without memorizing a code.
  • AutoCorrect can be set up to replace a shortcut like "deg" with the degree symbol automatically.
  • The Character Map app on Windows and Character Viewer on Mac let you find and copy the symbol if keyboard shortcuts do not work.

Mac keyboard shortcut

On Mac, press Option+Shift+8 to type the degree symbol. This combination works in Word, Pages, Mail, and any other text field on your Mac.

If the shortcut does not work, check that you are using the correct keys. The Option key is to the left of the Command key. Shift is above the Control key. Press all three at the same time, then release and type 8.

Using Word's Symbol dialog

If you do not want to memorize a keyboard shortcut, Word has a built-in Symbol tool. Click the Insert tab at the top of the ribbon, then click Symbol (on the far right of the toolbar). A dropdown menu appears — click More Symbols at the bottom.

The Symbol dialog opens. In the search box at the bottom, type degree. The degree symbol appears in the list. Click it once to select it, then click Insert. Close the dialog when you are done.

This method is slower than a keyboard shortcut but works if you forget the code. You can also browse the symbol list by scrolling, though searching is faster.

Setting up AutoCorrect for repeated use

If you type the degree symbol often, set up Word to replace a shortcut with the symbol automatically. First, insert the degree symbol using any method above. Then go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options.

In the AutoCorrect dialog, type a shortcut in the Replace field — for example, deg or :degree:. Leave the cursor in the document, copy the degree symbol you just typed, then paste it into the With field. Click Add, then OK.

Now whenever you type your shortcut followed by a space or punctuation, Word replaces it with the degree symbol. This saves time if you work with temperatures or angles regularly.

Using Character Map on Windows

If keyboard shortcuts are not working, the Character Map app can find and copy the symbol for you. Press Windows key+R, type charmap, and press Enter. The Character Map window opens.

In the search box, type degree. The degree symbol appears in the list. Double-click it to add it to the Copy field at the bottom, then click Copy. Go back to Word and paste it where you need it.

Using Character Viewer on Mac

On Mac, open Character Viewer by pressing Control+Command+Space (or go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Input Sources and enable Character Viewer). A panel opens showing available characters.

Search for degree in the search box. Click the degree symbol to select it, then double-click to insert it into your document. This method works when keyboard shortcuts fail or you want to see what the symbol looks like before inserting it.

Copying from the web

If none of the above methods work, you can copy the degree symbol from anywhere online. Search for "degree symbol" in your browser, find a page that displays it, select it with your mouse, copy it (Ctrl+C on Windows, Command+C on Mac), and paste it into Word.

This is the slowest option but works as a last resort. Once you have pasted it once, you can set up AutoCorrect as described above so you never have to search for it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Alt+0176 not work on my Windows laptop?

Laptops often do not have a dedicated numeric keypad. You may need to enable Num Lock and use the number keys embedded in your letter keys (usually marked with small numbers). Check your laptop manual for which keys act as numbers. If this still does not work, use the Symbol dialog or Character Map instead.

Can I use the degree symbol in email or other programs?

Yes. The Alt code on Windows and Option+Shift+8 on Mac work in Outlook, Gmail, Google Docs, and most text fields. Some older programs or web forms may not support it, but the Symbol dialog method works only in Word and similar Microsoft programs.

Is there a way to type the degree symbol without memorizing a code?

Yes. Use the Symbol dialog in Word (Insert > Symbol > More Symbols), search for "degree," and click Insert. You can also set up AutoCorrect to replace a straightforward shortcut like "deg" with the symbol, so you never have to search again.

What if I need the degree symbol for Celsius or Fahrenheit?

Type the degree symbol the same way, then type the letter when ready after it with no space — for example, 98°F or 37°C. Word will not add a space automatically, so the symbol stays attached to the letter.