How To Insert the Degree Symbol on Windows: A Simple Guide

If you’ve ever needed to type the degree symbol on a Windows computer and found yourself scratching your head, you’re not alone. This little symbol might seem elusive at first, but turns out, inserting it is simpler than it looks — once you know the trick or two. Whether you’re working on a weather report, a math problem, or just want your emails to look a bit more polished, mastering these quick methods can save some time and frustration. A lot of folks get stuck because Windows hides the more straightforward options or just assume they need complicated software. Usually, it’s just knowing where to look or which shortcut to press that makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll cover a few practical ways to get that pesky ° symbol into your text. Some methods are quick keyboard tricks, others involve the Character Map or Unicode. Not all ways work perfectly in every app, but with a bit of trial and error, you’ll find your groove. By the end, you’ll be able to add the degree symbol almost everywhere — documents, emails, notes — you name it.

How to Fix Getting the Degree Symbol on Windows

Use the Numeric Keypad with Alt Code

This is the classic, tried-and-true method. Basically, press and hold Alt, then type 0176 on your numeric keypad, and let go of Alt. The trick here is that Windows interprets this is as a character code, which results in the degree symbol.Why it helps: It’s fast once you remember, and most PCs with a numpad support it.When it applies: If you’re on a desktop or laptop with a dedicated numpad (or a numpad overlay).What to expect: The symbol will appear right where your cursor is.Note: Make sure Num Lock is ON. Otherwise, the numbers won’t register. Sometimes on laptops, this method doesn’t do anything because the Num Lock is disabled or the key mapping is weird. On those, moving straight to the Character Map or Unicode tricks might be better.

Open the Character Map Tool

This is kind of old-school but reliable. Just search “Character Map” in your Start menu and open it. Once open, find the degree symbol (it’s usually in the Latin-1 Supplement or symbol set).Click on it, hit Copy, and then paste it wherever needed.Why it helps: It works everywhere, especially in apps that don’t like Alt code inputs.When it applies: If you’re dealing with a tricky app or just want a visual way of choosing symbols, this is your go-to.What to expect: After copying, the symbol is ready to paste into any document.Tip: Bookmark or pin the Character Map for quick access if you often need special characters. For even quicker access next time, you could create a shortcut or script to pop it in, but that’s a bit more advanced.

Use Unicode and the Alt + X Trick in Word

If you’re working inside Microsoft Word, this one’s pretty handy. Type 00B0, then press Alt + X, and the code transforms into the degree symbol.Why it helps: It’s super fast for Word users, and Unicode can be used for a lot of other symbols too.When it applies: Mainly in Word or Office apps, but not in Notepad or browsers.What to expect: The code is replaced with the symbol immediately.Note: Make sure you’re in the right text mode, and that you’re not in a special formatting environment where this might behave differently. Sometimes, on certain setups, pressing Alt + X after the code can be a little finicky, but generally, it’s reliable once you get used to it.

Activate the Touch Keyboard and Find the Degree Sign

Right-click on the taskbar and choose Show touch keyboard button. Now, click that icon and enable the “&123” button to access special characters. On the touch keyboard, the degree symbol is usually there, just tap it.Why it helps: No need for numeric keypad, just tap your way through.When it applies: Good on laptops or tablets.What to expect: The symbol appears in your text after tapping.Note: Sometimes, you might need to click the “🔍” key or switch to the symbols view if you don’t see it immediately. On some setups, it might be a bit hidden or require you to explore a few menus, but it’s handy for quick, casual use.

Set Up AutoCorrect in Word

If you often need the degree symbol, automating it might be worth it. Inside Word, go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options. Add an entry so typing “deg” automatically turns into “°”.Why it helps: Saves time when you’re regularly adding this symbol in documents.When it applies: Mainly in Word since AutoCorrect can be customized there.What to expect: Just type “deg” and watch it change after a space or punctuation.Note: Be careful not to override existing abbreviations or words — customize your trigger wisely. Seems like a small thing, but in long documents, this can really speed up your typing.

Tips for Making the Degree Symbol on Windows

  • Make sure Num Lock is on before trying the Alt code.
  • The classic code is 0176, so memorize it or save it somewhere.
  • Bookmark or pin the Character Map for quick access — because Windows sometimes hides these things away.
  • Think about creating custom AutoCorrect entries if you’re a frequent user in Word.
  • Note that some apps (like certain text editors or web forms) might not support all methods — test before relying on one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I type the degree symbol on a laptop without a numeric keypad?

Most laptops don’t have a dedicated numpad, so the best options are the on-screen keyboard or the Character Map. Sometimes, the touch keyboard button on taskbar is your friend, or just copy-paste from a website or document.

What if the Alt code doesn’t work?

Double-check that Num Lock is enabled. Also, make sure you’re using the right keypad — sometimes, laptop key mappings or different keyboard layouts mess this up. Restarting the app or even rebooting sometimes resets the input method.

Can I use the degree symbol in emails or messaging apps?

Yeah, most modern email clients support special characters. Just paste it in or use the Character Map. Some apps also support Unicode hex codes (like “\u00B0”), but that’s more for coding or smart text features.

Is there a quick way to insert ° in web pages?

For HTML, simply type `°` or the character itself. Not really a shortcut on the keyboard for browsers, but copying and pasting works fine.

Why doesn’t the touch keyboard show the degree symbol by default?

You need to go into the special characters or symbol view (via the &123 key) and find it there. Sometimes, it takes a bit of digging because it’s tucked away in the symbols menus.

Summary

  • Use Alt + 0176 with Num Lock on for quick typing.
  • Open Character Map, find, copy, and paste.
  • Type 00B0 and press Alt + X in Word.
  • Enable the touch keyboard for tap-based insertion.
  • Set up AutoCorrect to turn “deg” into “°”.

Wrap-up

Getting the hang of inserting the degree symbol isn’t exactly rocket science, but man, Windows does make it a bit more convoluted than it needs to be. Still, once those shortcuts and tools are in your back pocket, typing temperatures, angles, or just looking a little more professional in your docs gets way easier. It’s kind of a small habit that can save a ton of time in the long run. Fingers crossed this helps someone avoid the endless hunt and makes their workflow just a bit smoother. Whether you’re writing reports, doing math, or just nerding out, knowing this little trick can save some headaches over time.