How to Type the Degree Symbol in Standard American English
The degree symbol (°) is a small circle placed slightly above the baseline, used to indicate a measurement of temperature or an angle. In Standard American English, there are three primary ways to type the degree symbol:
Method 1: Using the Alt Code (Windows and macOS)
- Windows: Hold down the "Alt" key on your keyboard and type the number "0176" on the numeric keypad. Release the "Alt" key to insert the degree symbol.
- macOS: Hold down the "Option" key on your keyboard and press the "Shift" key and "8" key simultaneously. Release the keys to insert the degree symbol.
Method 2: Using Character Map (Windows)
- Open the Character Map utility by typing "Character Map" in the Windows search bar.
- Select the "Symbol" font from the drop-down menu.
- Locate the degree symbol (°) in the character map.
- Click on the symbol and click the "Select" button.
- Click the "Copy" button and paste the symbol into your document or application.
Method 3: Using Special Characters (macOS)
- Open the Emoji & Symbols viewer on your Mac by pressing "Command" + "Control" + "Space".
- Click on the "Math Symbols" tab.
- Locate the degree symbol (°) in the list of symbols.
- Click on the symbol to insert it into your document or application.
Alternative Methods:
- Microsoft Word: Type "degree" and press the "F3" key to insert the degree symbol.
- Google Docs: Type "insertdegree" and press "Enter" to insert the degree symbol.
- Symbol Keyboard Shortcut: Some keyboards have a dedicated key for the degree symbol. Check your keyboard’s user manual for specific instructions.
Tips:
- Ensure that your numeric keypad is activated on your Windows computer to use the Alt code method.
- If you have difficulty inserting the degree symbol using the methods above, try using a different browser or application.
- The degree symbol should be placed immediately after the number it is modifying, without any space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between the degree symbol and the diameter symbol?
A: The degree symbol (°) is used to indicate a measurement of temperature or an angle, while the diameter symbol (⌀) is used to indicate the diameter of a circle.
Q: Can I use the degree symbol in scientific notation?
A: Yes, the degree symbol can be used in scientific notation to indicate a power of ten. For example, "10°" represents ten to the power of 10.
Q: Is it acceptable to use other symbols to represent the degree symbol?
A: No, it is not considered good practice to use other symbols, such as an apostrophe or quotation mark, to represent the degree symbol.
Q: How do I insert the degree symbol on a mobile device?
A: The methods for inserting the degree symbol on mobile devices vary depending on the operating system and keyboard app you are using. Refer to your device’s user manual or keyboard app’s help documentation.
Q: Why is the degree symbol sometimes used in conjunction with the Celsius or Fahrenheit symbol?
A: The degree symbol is used with the Celsius or Fahrenheit symbol to indicate the unit of temperature being measured. For example, "20°C" represents 20 degrees Celsius.
Conclusion:
Typing the degree symbol in Standard American English is a simple process once you know the correct methods. By employing the techniques outlined in this article, you can easily and accurately include the degree symbol in your written documents or applications. Remember to use the degree symbol appropriately and consistently to enhance the clarity and professionalism of your work.
