How to Insert a Degree Symbol in Microsoft Word

Whether you are typing a weather report (“It is currently 75° outside”) or writing a geometry test (“The angle is 90°”), you need to know how to type the small degree symbol. It is not located anywhere on a standard computer keyboard.

Fortunately, Microsoft Word offers multiple ways to insert a degree symbol into your document.

Method 1: The Fast Keyboard Shortcut (Windows)

If you are using a Windows PC with a full-size keyboard that includes a numeric keypad on the right side, you can use a hidden “Alt Code”.

1. Place your cursor where you want the degree symbol to appear.
2. Make sure your Num Lock key is turned on.
3. Press and hold down the Alt key on your keyboard.
4. While holding Alt, type 0 1 7 6 on the numeric keypad.
5. Release the Alt key. The degree symbol (°) will instantly appear.

Note: You must use the numeric keypad. Typing the numbers across the top row of your keyboard will not work.

Method 2: The Fast Keyboard Shortcut (Mac)

If you are using Microsoft Word on a MacBook or an iMac, the keyboard shortcut is much easier to remember and does not require a numeric keypad.

1. Place your cursor where you want the symbol.
2. Press and hold Option + Shift + 8.
3. The degree symbol (°) will instantly appear.

Method 3: Using the Insert Symbol Menu

If you are on a Windows laptop without a numeric keypad, you cannot use the Alt code. Instead, you can use Word’s built-in symbol library.

1. Go to the Insert tab on the ribbon menu.
2. Look toward the far right side of the ribbon and click on Symbol.
3. If you do not see the degree symbol in the short drop-down list, click on More Symbols…
4. A new window will open. Ensure the “Font” drop-down is set to (normal text).
5. Scroll down the list of characters until you find the degree symbol (°).
6. Click on the symbol to highlight it, then click the Insert button at the bottom of the window.
7. Click Close.

The symbol is now in your document. Even better, the next time you click the “Symbol” button on the ribbon, the degree sign will appear in your “Recently used symbols” list for quick access.