The fastest way: Alt code on Windows

On a Windows computer, hold Alt and type 0176 on the numeric keypad (the number pad on the right side of your keyboard), then release Alt. The degree symbol ° appears when ready. This works in Word, email, web forms, and most other programs.

The numeric keypad is essential — typing 0176 on the regular number row above the letters will not work. If your keyboard does not have a dedicated numeric keypad, you may have a Num Lock key that activates a hidden one. Check your keyboard manual or look for numbers printed in a different color on the right side of your letter keys.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows users can type the degree symbol when ready by holding Alt and typing 0176 on the numeric keypad.
  • Mac users should press Shift + Option + 8 to produce the degree symbol.
  • Word's Insert menu offers a Symbol dialog where you can search for the degree symbol by name and insert it without memorizing codes.
  • If you type the degree symbol often, you can create a keyboard shortcut in Word that replaces a short text string with the symbol.

Mac keyboard shortcut

On a Mac, press Shift + Option + 8 (the 8 key on the number row, not a numeric keypad). The degree symbol appears when ready. This shortcut works in Word, Apple Mail, web browsers, and most other Mac applications.

If the shortcut does not work, check that you are using the correct modifier keys. Shift is the up arrow key, and Option is the key labeled "alt" on most Mac keyboards. Some older Mac keyboards may have different key labels — if you are unsure, check your keyboard documentation.

Using Word's Symbol dialog

Open Word and place your cursor where you want the degree symbol. Click the Insert tab at the top, then click Symbol (on the far right of the ribbon). A dropdown menu appears — click More Symbols at the bottom.

In the Symbol dialog box, type degree in the search field at the bottom. 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 requires no memorization.

Creating a custom keyboard shortcut in Word

If you type the degree symbol regularly, you can set up Word to insert it automatically when you type a short code. Open Word and go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options.

In the AutoCorrect dialog, click the AutoCorrect tab. In the "Replace" field, type a short code like :deg or deg:. In the "With" field, type or paste the degree symbol (you can copy it from anywhere or insert it using the Symbol dialog). Click Add, then OK. Now whenever you type your code followed by a space, Word replaces it with the degree symbol.

Copying and pasting the symbol

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

This method is useful if you have the symbol in front of you but do not remember the keyboard shortcut. It is slower than using Alt codes or keyboard shortcuts for regular use, but it requires no setup.

Why the degree symbol matters in your document

Using the actual degree symbol (°) instead of a superscript zero or the letter O makes your document look professional and ensures screen readers and other assistive technology read it correctly. Temperature readings, angles, coordinates, and scientific measurements all use the degree symbol, and using the right character matters for clarity and accessibility.

If you are sharing documents with others or submitting work to an organization, the correct symbol also prevents formatting problems when the document is opened on different computers or converted to different file formats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if Alt + 0176 does not work on my Windows computer?

Make sure Num Lock is turned on — you should see a light on your keyboard or a Num Lock indicator on your screen. If Num Lock is on and the code still does not work, try using the Symbol dialog instead. Some keyboards, especially on laptops, require you to hold a Function key in addition to Alt.

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

Yes. The Alt code (Windows) and Shift + Option + 8 (Mac) work in Google Docs, Gmail, web forms, and most online applications. If the keyboard shortcut does not work in a specific program, use the Symbol dialog in Word and copy the symbol to paste elsewhere.

Is there a difference between the degree symbol and a superscript zero?

Yes. The degree symbol (°) is a distinct character designed for temperature, angles, and coordinates. A superscript zero (⁰) is a zero raised above the line. They look similar but are different characters, and using the correct one ensures your document displays and prints correctly across devices.

What if I need the degree symbol but do not have a numeric keypad?

Use the Symbol dialog in Word, create an AutoCorrect shortcut, or copy and paste the symbol from another source. Mac users can always use Shift + Option + 8 regardless of keyboard type. On Windows laptops without a numeric keypad, the Symbol dialog is usually the most reliable option.