How to type degree symbol on mac

As a dedicated user of Mac computers, I’ve often found myself needing to insert the degree symbol (°) into my documents and emails for various purposes, such as denoting temperatures, angles, or geographical coordinates. Over time, I have learned several methods to type the degree symbol on a Mac, which can be immensely helpful in different situations. In this article, I will share the various ways you can type the elusive degree symbol on your Mac device seamlessly. Whether you are crafting a report, preparing a presentation, or simply sending a message, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need.

Common Scenarios:

Typing in Scientific Documents

Inserting the degree symbol in scientific papers or presentations to indicate temperature readings, such as Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Documenting measurements in academic assignments that require precise numerical data, for example, geometrical angles in degrees.

Creating Recipes or Cooking Guides

For home cooks and professionals who need to write recipes with specific oven temperatures in degrees.
When sharing cooking tips online or in culinary forums, indicating the exact degree symbol can be crucial for accurate instructions.

Communicating Geographical Coordinates

In geology or geography-related fields, denoting latitude or longitude coordinates with the correct degree symbol is a must.
For travelers or bloggers describing locations using degrees, knowing how to type the degree symbol on a Mac is essential.

Step-by-Step Guide. How To Type Degree Symbol On Mac:

Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut

Hold down the Option key and the Shift key simultaneously.
While holding these keys, press the 8 key on your keyboard.
The degree symbol (°) should now appear where your cursor is located in the text.

Note: This keyboard shortcut is the fastest and easiest way to type the degree symbol on a Mac.

Conclusion: This method is ideal for quick typing in any text field.

Method 2: Special Characters Menu

Position your cursor where you want the degree symbol to be inserted.
Click on the Edit menu at the top of the screen, then select Emoji & Symbols (or press Control + Command + Space).
Search for ‘degree’ in the search field, then double-click the degree symbol (°) to insert it into your document.

Note: The Special Characters Menu provides access to a wide range of symbols and emojis, including the degree symbol.

Conclusion: Perfect for when you need to insert the symbol infrequently or want to explore more symbols.

Method 3: Text Replacement

Open System Preferences and go to Keyboard.
Click on the Text tab, then press the + button to add a new text replacement.
In the ‘Replace’ field, type a shortcode, like ‘deg’; in the ‘With’ field, enter the degree symbol (°) by using the keyboard shortcut Option + Shift + 8.
Now, whenever you type ‘deg’, it will automatically convert to the degree symbol.

Note: Text replacement is a customizable feature that can save time if you use the symbol frequently.

Conclusion: This method is particularly useful for those who often need to type the degree symbol and wish to automate the process.

Method 4: Copy and Paste

Find a source where the degree symbol is already typed, like a webpage or a document.
Select the degree symbol with your cursor, then copy it using Command + C.
Place your cursor where you need the symbol in your document and paste it using Command + V.

Note: This method is straightforward but requires you to have access to a source with the symbol already available.

Conclusion: Copy and paste is practical for occasional use and when you already have a source to copy from.

Method 5: VoiceOver for Accessibility

Ensure that VoiceOver is enabled on your Mac by checking in System Preferences under Accessibility.
Place the cursor where you want to insert the degree symbol, then press the Command key twice to start dictation.
Clearly say ‘degree sign’ and VoiceOver will insert the symbol into your text automatically.

Note: Dictation can be particularly useful for those who may have difficulty using keyboard shortcuts or find it more convenient to use voice commands.

Conclusion: VoiceOver for inserting symbols is inclusive and helpful for users with accessibility needs.

Precautions and Tips:

Keyboard Proficiency

Become familiar with all the keyboard shortcuts available on your Mac for increased efficiency and reduced reliance on the mouse.
Practice using keyboard shortcuts to improve your speed and productivity when typing.

Extend Your Mac Know-How

While the focus here is on typing the degree symbol, mastering your Mac involves learning many other useful tips and tricks. For example, you can utilize the Spotlight Search to find and open applications or documents quickly by pressing Command + Space and typing the item’s name. Additionally, knowing how to take screenshots with keyboard shortcuts like Shift + Command + 3 for a full screen, or Shift + Command + 4 for a selected area, can be highly beneficial.

Moreover, customizing your Mac’s Dock with your frequently used applications allows for quicker access, and using Automator to create custom workflows can automate repetitive tasks. For complex text manipulation, leveraging the power of AppleScript can also be a game-changer.

Conclusion:

Being familiar with the various methods to type the degree symbol on your Mac enriches your computing experience and enhances your productivity. Whether you opt for the quick and easy keyboard shortcut, the Special Characters Menu, or even using voice commands, you’re now equipped with the know-how to insert the degree symbol with ease. Remember, these tips are just the beginning of what you can achieve with your Mac. Practice, explore, and don’t hesitate to delve deeper into the many resources available to master your Mac’s capabilities. Happy typing!

FAQ

How do I type the degree symbol on a Mac using keyboard shortcuts?

Press Shift + Option + 8 on your Mac keyboard to type the degree (°) symbol.

Is there an alternative keyboard combination for the degree symbol on Mac?

Yes, you can also use Option + K, which gives you a smaller degree symbol similar to the ring above (˚).

Can I insert the degree symbol using the Special Characters menu on Mac?

Absolutely, you can find and insert the degree symbol by going to the Edit menu, selecting Emoji & Symbols, and searching for degree.

What is the fastest way to access the degree symbol on a Mac?

The fastest way is by using the Shift + Option + 8 keyboard shortcut.

If the keyboard shortcuts don’t work, what should I do to type a degree symbol?

Check your keyboard settings or use the Emoji & Symbols viewer by clicking the Edit menu in most apps to insert the degree symbol.

Can I type the degree symbol on a Mac in any application?

Yes, the keyboard shortcuts and Special Characters menu are available system-wide across most Mac applications.

Is there a voice command I can use to type the degree symbol on a Mac?

You can use Dictation feature. Enable it in System Preferences and then say degree sign while dictating text.

Are there any accessibility features on a Mac that can help type the degree symbol?

Mac’s Accessibility features like Voice Control can assist in typing the degree symbol.

How do I add the degree symbol to a document using a Mac’s Touch Bar?

If you have a Touch Bar, after tapping the emoji button, you can slide to find and tap the degree symbol to insert it.

Where can I find more comprehensive guides for typing special characters on a Mac?

For more in-depth guides on typing various symbols, visit the Apple Support website.