Typing the degree symbol (°) on your Mac may seem like a daunting task, especially when it doesn’t have a dedicated key like other common symbols. Many resort to Google searches and copy-pasting to insert this symbol into their documents. However, there’s a simpler way to accomplish this task without leaving your keyboard. In this article, we’ll explore multiple methods to effortlessly type the degree symbol on macOS.
Leveraging Keyboard Shortcuts
The most straightforward method to type the degree symbol on macOS is by utilizing keyboard shortcuts. Here are the shortcuts you can use:
- Option+Shift+8: This combination instantly produces the degree symbol (°).
- Option+K: Though smaller, this produces a diacritic mark (˚) similar in appearance to the degree symbol. Stick with the first shortcut for clarity.
- Option + 0 (zero): This creates a different mark (º) known as the masculine ordinal indicator, not suitable for degree representation.
These shortcuts work universally across macOS, whether you’re drafting an online article, editing a document, or engaging with any text editor.
Emoji and Symbols Keyboard
Another convenient method involves accessing the Emoji and Symbols keyboard:
- Open the Keyboard: Press ‘control + command + space’ when editing text, or navigate to “Edit -> Emoji & Symbols” in the menu bar.
- Search for ‘Degree’: Use the search box to locate the degree symbol (°), along with °F and °C if necessary.
New MacBook’s Globe Key
For users of newer MacBooks or Apple keyboards, the Globe key offers quick access to the Emoji & Symbols keyboard:
- Press the Globe Key: During typing, simply press the Globe key to prompt the emoji keyboard. Search for ‘degree’ and insert the symbol (°) effortlessly.
Text Replacement
For a seamless typing experience, consider utilizing text replacement:
- Navigate to System Preferences: Open ‘System Preferences’ and go to ‘Keyboard’.
- Access Text Settings: Click on ‘Text’ in the top navigation bar.
- Create a Replacement: Hit the ‘+’ icon and specify your desired text replacement, such as “:deg” for the degree symbol.
- Assign the Symbol: In the ‘With’ column, input the degree symbol using the shift + command + 8 shortcut.
Now, whenever you type your chosen text replacement and hit space, macOS will automatically replace it with the degree symbol (°).
Conclusion
With these diverse methods at your disposal, typing the degree symbol on macOS becomes a breeze. Whether you prefer keyboard shortcuts, emoji keyboards, or text replacements, there’s an option tailored to your workflow. Which method will you incorporate into your typing routine? Share your choice with us in the comments below.
