The fastest way to add a degree symbol

The quickest method in Microsoft Word is to type the number 0176 on your numeric keypad, then press Alt+X. Word converts those numbers into the degree symbol (°) instantly. This works on Windows machines with a numeric keypad.

If you do not have a numeric keypad — common on laptops — use the Insert menu instead. Click Insert in the ribbon, then Symbol, scroll to find the degree symbol, and click Insert. The symbol appears in your document immediately.

Key Takeaways

  • On Windows with a numeric keypad, type 0176 then press Alt+X to insert the degree symbol instantly.
  • On Mac, hold Option and press Shift+8 to type the degree symbol directly.
  • The Insert menu method works on any computer and any version of Word, but takes slightly longer.
  • Once you insert a degree symbol, you can copy it and paste it elsewhere in your document to avoid repeating the steps.

Using Alt codes on Windows

The Alt code method requires your numeric keypad — the separate number pad on the right side of most desktop keyboards. Hold down the Alt key, type 0176 on the numeric keypad (not the number row at the top), then release Alt. The degree symbol appears where your cursor was positioned.

This method fails on laptop keyboards without a dedicated numeric keypad. Some laptops have a hidden numeric keypad accessed by holding Fn and pressing certain keys, but the process varies by manufacturer. If you are unsure whether your keyboard has one, try the Insert menu method instead — it works on every device.

Using keyboard shortcuts on Mac

On a Mac, hold Option and press Shift+8 simultaneously. The degree symbol appears instantly. This shortcut works in Word and most other Mac applications.

If that combination does not work, your Mac may use a different keyboard layout. Check your System Preferences under Keyboard to confirm your layout is set to U.S. or your country's standard. Non-standard layouts sometimes use different key combinations for special characters.

Finding the symbol through the Insert menu

Click the Insert tab in the ribbon at the top of Word. On the right side of the ribbon, locate and click Symbol — it appears as a Greek letter omega (Ω). A dropdown menu opens showing recently used symbols.

If the degree symbol is not in the recent list, click More Symbols at the bottom of the dropdown. A larger dialog box opens. In the Subset dropdown on the right, select Latin-1 Supplement. Scroll down slightly and you will see the degree symbol (°). Click it once to select it, then click the Insert button. Close the dialog when finished.

Copying and pasting the symbol

Once you have inserted the degree symbol once, the fastest way to use it again is to copy and paste it. Click directly on the degree symbol in your document to position your cursor next to it, then select it by double-clicking or dragging across it. Press Ctrl+C on Windows or Cmd+C on Mac to copy.

Navigate to wherever you need the symbol next and press Ctrl+V (Windows) or Cmd+V (Mac) to paste. This method is faster than repeating the Alt code or Insert menu steps multiple times in the same document.

Creating a keyboard shortcut for the degree symbol

If you use the degree symbol frequently, you can assign it to a custom keyboard shortcut. Open the Symbol dialog again (Insert > Symbol > More Symbols). Select the degree symbol, then click the Shortcut Key button near the bottom of the dialog.

A small window appears asking you to press the key combination you want to use. Choose something you will remember but that does not conflict with existing Word shortcuts — for example, Ctrl+Alt+D. Click Assign, then Close. From that point forward, pressing your custom shortcut inserts the degree symbol anywhere in Word.

Why the degree symbol matters in different contexts

The degree symbol is essential for writing temperatures (72°F), angles (45°), and geographic coordinates. Using the actual symbol (°) instead of typing the letter O or a superscript zero makes your document look professional and ensures the text reads correctly if someone copies it into another program.

Some fields like science, engineering, and geography use the degree symbol constantly. If you work in these areas, setting up a custom shortcut saves time across dozens of documents. For occasional use, the Alt code or Insert menu method is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Alt+0176 not work on my laptop?

Your laptop likely does not have a dedicated numeric keypad. Try the Insert menu method instead, which works on any computer. Some laptops have a hidden numeric keypad accessed through the Fn key, but the exact keys vary by brand — check your laptop manual if you want to try that route.

Can I use the degree symbol in file names?

Most operating systems allow the degree symbol in file names, but some older systems or network drives may reject it. If you are naming a file, test it first. For document content, the degree symbol works without restriction.

Does the Alt code method work in other Microsoft programs?

Yes. The Alt+0176 shortcut works in Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and most Windows applications. The Insert menu method also works across all Microsoft Office programs, though the menu location may differ slightly.

What if I need a different symbol that looks similar?

The degree symbol (°) is distinct from the masculine ordinal indicator (º) and the ring above accent (˚). If you need a different symbol, use the Insert > Symbol menu and browse the Latin-1 Supplement or other subsets to find the exact character you need.