What is the Keyboard Shortcut for the Degree Symbol on Windows?

The primary and most common keyboard shortcut for typing the degree symbol (°) on a Windows computer is Alt + 0176.

Direct Keyboard Shortcut: The Alt Code Method

The Alt + 0176 method utilizes an Alt code, a sequence of numbers entered while holding down the Alt key, to insert special characters not found on standard keyboard keys. This is the most efficient way if your keyboard is equipped with a numeric keypad.

How to Use the Alt Code for the Degree Symbol:

1. Place your cursor where you want to insert the degree symbol.
2. Press and hold the Alt key on your keyboard.
3. While holding the Alt key, type 0176 using the numeric keypad (the block of numbers on the right side of your keyboard, not the number row above the letters).
4. Release the Alt key. The degree symbol (°) will appear.

Important Note: This method works exclusively for keyboards that include a 10-key numeric pad. Ensure that Num Lock is turned on if required by your keyboard.

Alternative Methods for Typing the Degree Symbol

If your keyboard lacks a numeric keypad (common on laptops or compact keyboards) or if you prefer other methods, Windows offers several convenient alternatives to insert the degree symbol.

Using the Character Map Tool

The Character Map is a built-in Windows utility that allows you to view all characters available in a font and copy them to your clipboard.

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type charmap, and press Enter, or search for "Character Map" in the Windows search bar.
2. In the Character Map window, ensure a suitable font (like Arial or Times New Roman) is selected from the "Font" dropdown.
3. Scroll through the characters or use the "Search for" box and type "degree" to quickly locate the symbol.
4. Click on the degree symbol (°), then click Select, and finally Copy.
5. Paste the symbol into your document or application (Ctrl + V). You can find more details on using Character Map on Microsoft Support.

Copy and Paste the Symbol

For quick, occasional use, simply copy the degree symbol from a reliable source and paste it into your desired location.

• Copy this symbol: °
• Paste it using Ctrl + V.

Utilizing the Windows Emoji Panel

Windows 10 and 11 include an emoji panel that also provides access to various symbols.

1. Press Win + . (Windows key + period) or Win + ; (Windows key + semicolon) to open the emoji panel.
2. Click on the Symbols tab (usually represented by the Ω symbol).
3. Scroll down or use the search bar within the panel to find the degree symbol. Typing "degree" will quickly narrow down the results.
4. Click on the symbol to insert it directly.

Summary of Methods for the Degree Symbol

Here's a quick overview of the popular methods to type the degree symbol in Windows:

Method	Shortcut / Steps	Notes
Alt Code	Alt + 0176 (on numeric keypad)	Requires a 10-key numeric keypad to work.
Character Map	Search charmap, then find & copy	Good for finding obscure symbols and fonts.
Copy and Paste	Copy °, then paste with Ctrl + V	Easiest for infrequent or one-off use.
Windows Emoji Panel	Win + . or Win + ;, then Symbols	User-friendly, built into modern Windows.

Why You Might Need the Degree Symbol

The degree symbol is widely used in various contexts, including:

• Temperature readings: Such as 25°C (Celsius) or 77°F (Fahrenheit).
• Angles in geometry and trigonometry: Like a 90° angle.
• Geographic coordinates: For latitude and longitude.
• Academic and scientific writing: To denote angular measurements or rotations.

These methods ensure you can accurately insert the degree symbol whenever needed in your documents, emails, or other applications on a Windows operating system.