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 first — look for a key labeled Num Lock or Fn + Num Lock, depending on your model. Some laptops require you to hold Fn while typing the numbers on the letter keys that double as numbers.

If the Alt code does not work, check that Num Lock is on — you should see a light on the Num Lock key itself. Type slowly and deliberately, and make sure you are using the numeric keypad, not the number row above the letters.

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 without opening any menus.
  • Word's Insert menu offers a Symbol dialog where you can search for the degree symbol and insert it by clicking, though this is slower than keyboard shortcuts.
  • If you type degree symbols often, you can create a custom keyboard shortcut in Word so a short abbreviation expands to the symbol automatically.

The Mac shortcut: Option + Shift + 8

On Mac, press Option + Shift + 8 together. The degree symbol appears when ready. This is the standard Mac keyboard shortcut and works in Word, Mail, and any other text field.

If you are using an external keyboard connected to your Mac, the same shortcut applies. The Option key is the one labeled Alt on some keyboards — it is to the left of the spacebar. Hold it down along with Shift and the 8 key at the same time.

Using Word's Symbol menu when you forget the shortcut

If you do not remember the keyboard shortcut, open the Insert tab at the top of Word. Click Symbol on the right side of the ribbon, then click More Symbols at the bottom of the dropdown menu.

A dialog box opens. In the search field 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 reliable but slower than a keyboard shortcut. If you find yourself using the Symbol menu repeatedly, it is worth learning the Alt code or Mac shortcut instead.

Creating a custom shortcut for frequent use

If you type degree symbols regularly — for temperatures, angles, or coordinates — you can set up Word to insert one automatically when you type a short code.

Go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options. In the Replace field, type a short abbreviation like :deg. In the With field, type or paste the degree symbol (°). Click Add, then OK.

Now whenever you type :deg followed by a space or punctuation, Word replaces it with °. You can use any abbreviation you want — degr, deg:, or ~d all work. Choose something you will remember and that you are unlikely to type by accident.

Copying and pasting the symbol

If you have a degree symbol somewhere else — in an email, a web page, or another document — you can copy it and paste it into Word. Highlight the symbol, press Ctrl + C (or Cmd + C on Mac), click where you want it in Word, and press Ctrl + V (or Cmd + V).

This is the slowest method and only practical if you already have the symbol visible on your screen. For one-off use, the keyboard shortcut is faster. For repeated use, the AutoCorrect method saves the most time.

Why the degree symbol matters for readability

A real degree symbol (°) looks different from a superscript zero or the letter O. Using the correct symbol makes technical writing, scientific documents, and temperature references clear and professional. Readers notice the difference, especially in formal documents.

Some people type a zero or the letter o in superscript as a workaround, but this is not the same character and may not display correctly when the document is shared or printed. The actual degree symbol is a single character designed for this purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most laptops do not have a dedicated numeric keypad. You need to enable Num Lock, then use the number keys that are printed on the letter keys. Look for Num Lock in the top row or corner of your keyboard, or try Fn + Num Lock. Once Num Lock is on, hold Alt and type 0176 using those dual-function keys.

Can I use the degree symbol in Google Docs or other programs?

Yes. The Alt code (Windows) and Option + Shift + 8 (Mac) work in Google Docs, Gmail, and most text fields online. If the keyboard shortcut does not work in a specific program, use the Insert menu or copy and paste the symbol from another source.

What if I need the degree symbol in a different context, like Celsius or Fahrenheit?

The degree symbol is the same in all contexts. Type it the same way whether you are writing 25° C, 77° F, or referring to an angle of 90°. Some style guides prefer a space between the number and the symbol, while others do not — check your document's style guide.

Is there a way to make the degree symbol appear automatically after a number?

Word's AutoCorrect can do this, but it requires you to type a trigger code first. For example, you could set it so that typing 25d becomes 25°. Go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options and create a replacement rule. Be careful to choose a trigger that you will not type accidentally in normal writing.

Can I insert the degree symbol on a phone or tablet?

On most phones, hold down the zero key (0) on the keyboard and a degree symbol appears as an option. On some Android devices, you may need to access the symbol through the punctuation or special characters menu. The exact method depends on your keyboard app.