How Do I Type the Degree Symbol on a Mac?

General Mac Tutorials
1

I’m working on a project that requires frequent use of the degree symbol (°) for temperature readings. However, I’m not sure how to type it on my Mac. I’ve tried various key combinations, but nothing seems to work. Can someone guide me through the correct steps? Thanks in advance!

2

Hey there!

I totally get it—figuring out all the little tricks on a Mac can be a bit confusing, especially when you need a special character like the degree symbol (°). So, let me walk you through several ways to type it. You’ll be typing ° like a pro in no time!

Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut

This is probably the quickest and most efficient way to insert the degree symbol:

  1. Make sure your cursor is where you want the degree symbol to appear.
  2. Simply press Shift + Option + 8 on your keyboard.

That’s it! Adding the degree symbol with this keyboard shortcut is super handy when you’re typing out temperature readings or any other data that requires it.

Method 2: Character Viewer

If for some reason you’re not comfortable with keyboard shortcuts or you just can’t remember them, you can use the Character Viewer. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Character Viewer:

    • Click on the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
    • Go to System Settings.
    • Click on Keyboard.
    • Check the box labeled Show keyboard and emoji viewers in menu bar.

  2. Using the Character Viewer:

    • Click the keyboard icon in the menu bar and choose Show Emoji & Symbols.
    • In the Character Viewer that pops up, type “degree” in the search bar.
    • Double-click the degree symbol or drag it to where you want it in your text.

Method 3: Text Replacement

For those who type the degree symbol frequently, this might be the best solution. You can set up a text replacement that will insert the degree symbol when you type a certain string of characters:

  1. Open System Settings:

    • Click on the Apple menu () in the top-left corner and select System Settings.
    • Go to Keyboard.

  2. Set Up Text Replacement:

    • Click on Text in the sidebar.
    • Click the + button at the bottom left to add a new text replacement.
    • In the Replace column, type a shortcut you don’t normally use (like deg).
    • In the With column, type or paste the degree symbol (°).

Now, whenever you type that shortcut (e.g., deg), it’ll automatically replace it with the degree symbol.

Method 4: Copy-Paste

When all else fails, there’s always copy-paste. It’s simple but effective:

  1. Copy the degree symbol from here: °.
  2. Paste it wherever you need it.

Tips for Using the Degree Symbol

To make sure your degree symbols are consistent and look great in your project, here are a few tips:

  • Consistency: Always use the same method for adding degree symbols. This ensures that all your symbols look uniform.
  • Formatting: Double-check the font and size of your degree symbols to match the rest of your text. Sometimes these symbols can look slightly off if the font doesn’t match perfectly.
  • Practice: If you’re using keyboard shortcuts or text replacements, practice a few times so it becomes second nature.

Bonus Tip: Degrees in Different Contexts

If you’re planning to use degree symbols for angles and not just temperature, here’s a little bonus info:

  • Degrees for Angles: The methods above work just the same for both temperatures and angles. So whether you’re using the degree symbol in geometry or weather reports, the steps remain identical.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are a few common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

  • Keyboard Shortcuts Not Working: Make sure you’re pressing the correct keys in the right order. It should be Shift + Option + 8.
  • Character Viewer Not Showing Up: Verify it’s enabled in the System Settings under Keyboard. If it’s not showing, try restarting your Mac.
  • Text Replacement Issues: If your text replacement doesn’t seem to work, ensure there are no spaces before or after the replacement text. Also, check to see if it might be conflicting with another text replacement.

Wrapping Up

There you go! Several straightforward methods to add the degree symbol on a Mac. Whether you opt for the keyboard shortcut, Character Viewer, text replacement, or good ol’ copy-paste, you now have the tools to get those degree symbols into your project quickly and efficiently.

Here’s to making your project look that much more professional and polished! If you have any more questions or need further clarification on anything, feel free to ask. Happy typing!

Cheers!

3

Hey there! Ah, the elusive degree symbol, right? It’s like trying to find Waldo sometimes. Don’t worry, got you covered.

Here’s the easiest way to summon that little ° on your Mac:

  1. Press Option (⌥) + Shift (⇧) + 8.
    Bam! Degree symbol magic! No need to sacrifice a goat under a full moon.

If you’re like, “What the heck is Option?” it’s the key usually marked with “⌥” or “Alt”, right next to Command (⌘).

But hey, if you’re feeling super fancy or just wanna flex your tech-savvy skills, there’s a cooler way too:

  1. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Input Sources and add Emoji & Symbols.
    When you need the degree symbol, just click on the little character viewer (usually a flag icon) in your menu bar, then search for “degree” and double-click that bad boy.

So, next time someone asks how hot it is, you can confidently show off your new ° skills. Hope this helps and saves you from the frustration of smacking your head against the keyboard! Happy temping!