How to Type Degree Symbol on Mac

If you’re wondering how to type degree symbol on Mac, you’re not alone.

Many users seek this simple yet specific character for various needs, such as formatting temperatures, angles, and more in their documents.

In this guide, we’ll explore different methods for inserting the degree symbol on your Mac.

Why Do You Need the Degree Symbol?

The degree symbol (°) is essential in various contexts, such as:

• Weather reports: Displaying temperatures (e.g., 75°F).
• Mathematics: Indicating angles (e.g., 90°).
• Scientific literature: Specifying measurements.

Knowing how to type degree symbol on Mac can enhance the clarity of your writing and presentations.

What Are the Different Methods to Type the Degree Symbol?

1. Keyboard Shortcut

One of the quickest methods to learn how to type degree symbol on Mac is by using a keyboard shortcut.

To use the keyboard shortcut, follow these steps:

1. Position your cursor in the document where you want to insert the degree symbol.
2. Press Option + Shift + 8.

This combination will immediately produce the degree symbol (°).

2. Using the Character Viewer

Another method to type the degree symbol involves using the built-in Character Viewer on your Mac.

Follow these steps:

1. Click on the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Select System Preferences.
3. Click on Keyboard.
4. In the Keyboard tab, check the box next to Show keyboard and emoji viewers in menu bar.
5. Once enabled, click on the input menu icon (a flag or emoji) in your menu bar.
6. Select Show Emoji & Symbols.
7. In the Character Viewer, type “degree” in the search bar.
8. Double-click the degree symbol (°) to insert it into your document.

This method allows you to explore and insert many other symbols and special characters as well.

3. Copy and Paste the Degree Symbol

If you prefer a simpler way, you can always copy and paste the degree symbol from the web.

Here’s how:

1. Search for “degree symbol” using your favorite search engine.
2. Select the degree symbol (°) from the search results.
3. Right-click and choose Copy (or press Command + C).
4. Move to your document and right-click where you want to insert it.
5. Select Paste (or press Command + V).

This method is straightforward but requires going back and forth between your browser and document.

4. Text Replacement Feature

MacOS has a convenient feature called Text Replacement that can automate inserting the degree symbol.

Here’s how to set it up:

1. Go to the Apple menu () and select System Preferences.
2. Click on Keyboard and then go to the Text tab.
3. Click the + button to add a new text replacement.
4. In the Replace column, type a shortcut like “deg”.
5. In the With column, copy and paste the degree symbol (°).
6. Now, whenever you type your shortcut (deg), it will automatically replace it with the degree symbol.

This feature is particularly useful for frequent users who often need to type the degree symbol on Mac.

5. Using Microsoft Word or Google Docs

If you’re working in word processing applications like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, these platforms often have built-in features for inserting special symbols.

For Microsoft Word:

1. Click on the Insert tab.
2. Select Symbol from the far right.
3. Choose More Symbols.
4. Find the degree symbol in the list and click Insert.

For Google Docs:

1. Click on the Insert menu.
2. Hover over Special characters.
3. In the dialog box, type “degree” in the search bar.
4. Click on the degree symbol to insert it.

Each of these applications makes typing the degree symbol straightforward and efficient.

6. Using a Shortcut App

If you often find yourself needing special characters like the degree symbol, consider using third-party applications designed for shortcuts.

Tools like TextExpander or aText can make typing special characters a breeze.

These apps allow you to create custom shortcuts that can include various symbols, emojis, and text snippets.

Where else can you use the Degree Symbol?

Now that you know how to type degree symbol on Mac, it’s essential to understand where you can apply it effectively:

• Software Development: When coding, especially in libraries handling geometrical calculations or graphical representations.
• Cooking Recipes: Indicating oven temperature (e.g., “Bake at 350°F”).
• Physics: Representing angle measurements in problems and diagrams (e.g., “45° angle”).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while trying to type the degree symbol on Mac, check these common issues:

• Keyboard settings: Ensure that your keyboard layout corresponds to your region.
• Accessibility settings: Check if any accessibility features might be interfering with keyboard shortcuts.
• Application-specific issues: Some applications handle symbols differently. Ensure that you are using a compatible app for your needs.

FAQs About Typing the Degree Symbol on Mac

What to do if the keyboard shortcut doesn’t work?

If the keyboard shortcut (Option + Shift + 8) does not produce the degree symbol, check your keyboard layout settings. You might have a different layout that does not correspond to the standard one.

Can I use the degree symbol in all applications?

Most applications, including word processors and design software, accept the degree symbol. However, always double-check if the specific app you are using supports special character insertion.

Is the character viewer available on older macOS versions?

Yes, the Character Viewer feature is available in older macOS versions. Look under System Preferences > Keyboard to enable it.

Can I type the degree symbol using my iPhone or iPad?

Yes, you can also type the degree symbol on iOS devices. You can find it in the Emoji keyboard or use a text replacement shortcut similarly.

Is there a way to customize shortcuts on Mac?

Yes, you can customize shortcuts on Mac by going to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts. From there, you can modify existing shortcuts or create new ones.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to type degree symbol on Mac is a valuable skill that can save you time and enhance your documents.

By utilizing keyboard shortcuts, the Character Viewer, and even text replacement, you can easily incorporate this symbol into your work.

Whether you’re writing a report, preparing a presentation, or simply tracking temperatures, now you know exactly how to do it!

Feel free to choose the method that works best for you!