The fastest way depends on your operating system

The degree symbol (°) is not a dedicated key on most keyboards, so you need a workaround. The method you use depends on whether you are on Windows, Mac, or Linux, and which program you are typing in. Most of the time, the fastest route is a keyboard shortcut — a combination of keys you hold or press in sequence.

If you use the degree symbol regularly — for temperature, angles, or coordinates — learning your system's shortcut takes 30 seconds and saves you time every time. If you use it rarely, the copy-and-paste method works just as well and requires no memorization.

Key Takeaways

  • On Windows, hold Alt and type 0176 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt to insert the degree symbol.
  • On Mac, press Shift + Option + 8 to type the degree symbol in any program.
  • On Linux, the method varies by desktop environment, but Ctrl + Shift + U followed by 00B0 and Space works in most applications.
  • If you do not have a numeric keypad or cannot remember the shortcut, you can copy the ° symbol from this page and paste it wherever you need it.
  • Some programs like Microsoft Word and Google Docs have their own symbol insertion menus that do not require memorizing a keyboard shortcut.

Windows: Using the numeric keypad

On Windows, the most reliable method is the Alt code. Hold down the Alt key on the left side of your keyboard, type 0176 on the numeric keypad (the number pad on the right side of your keyboard), then release Alt. The degree symbol appears where your cursor was.

This only works on the numeric keypad — the numbers across the top of the keyboard will not work. If your keyboard does not have a numeric keypad, or if you are on a laptop without a dedicated number pad, you may need to enable Num Lock first. Look for a key labeled Num Lock, usually near the top right of the keyboard. When Num Lock is on, a light on your keyboard will glow, and the right side of your keyboard will function as a number pad.

If your laptop has a Fn key, you may need to hold Fn + Alt + the number sequence instead. Test this once to see if it works on your machine, then you will know for future use.

Mac: The Shift + Option + 8 shortcut

On Mac, press Shift + Option + 8 at the same time. This works in almost every program — email, documents, web browsers, text editors. The degree symbol appears when ready where your cursor is.

This shortcut is consistent across all Mac keyboards, including laptops. You do not need to enable anything or use a numeric keypad. If the shortcut does not work in a specific program, that program may have its own symbol menu, but the keyboard shortcut works in the vast majority of cases.

Linux: Ctrl + Shift + U for Unicode input

On Linux, the method depends on your desktop environment, but the most common approach is Unicode input. Press Ctrl + Shift + U, type 00B0 (the Unicode code point for the degree symbol), then press Space or Enter. The degree symbol appears.

This works in GNOME, KDE, and most other desktop environments, though some older or minimal setups may not support it. If it does not work, check your input method settings or use the copy-and-paste method instead. Some Linux users also have success with Compose key sequences, but Unicode input is more portable across different systems.

Word and Google Docs: Using the Insert menu

If you are typing in Microsoft Word, you can use the Insert menu instead of memorizing a shortcut. Click Insert, then Symbol, then find the degree symbol in the list. Word shows you the keyboard shortcut for your system at the bottom of the dialog, so you can learn it if you plan to use it often.

Google Docs works similarly. Click Insert, then Special Characters, then search for "degree" or scroll until you find it. Click the symbol to insert it. This method is slower than a keyboard shortcut, but it requires no memorization and works the same way every time.

Copy and paste: The no-memorization method

If you do not want to remember a keyboard shortcut, you can copy the degree symbol from anywhere — including this page — and paste it wherever you need it. Highlight the symbol °, press Ctrl + C (or Cmd + C on Mac), then click where you want it and press Ctrl + V (or Cmd + V on Mac).

You can also bookmark a page with the symbol, or keep a text file with common symbols you use, and copy from there. This method is slightly slower than a keyboard shortcut, but it works on any device and requires no special knowledge of your operating system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Alt code not work on my Windows laptop?

Your laptop may not have a dedicated numeric keypad. Try enabling Num Lock first — look for a Num Lock key, usually near the top right. If that does not work, try holding Fn + Alt while typing the numbers. If neither works, use the copy-and-paste method instead.

Can I use the degree symbol in a web form or text message?

Yes, the keyboard shortcut works in most web forms and messaging apps. If it does not, copy and paste the symbol instead. Some older or very restricted systems may not accept special characters, but most modern platforms do.

Is there a way to make the degree symbol easier to access?

If you type the degree symbol very often, you can create a text replacement shortcut in your operating system settings. On Mac, go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Text and create a replacement rule. On Windows, you can use AutoCorrect in Word or a third-party tool like AutoHotkey.

What if I need other special symbols like ™ or €?

Each symbol has its own Alt code on Windows or keyboard shortcut on Mac. The Insert > Symbol menu in Word or Google Docs is the easiest way to find and insert any special character without memorizing codes.