Wondering how to type the degree symbol on a Mac? Mac gives you a few different ways to do it, but you need to know the right key combinations or menus to find them.
Here is the exact breakdown of how to type the degree symbol on your Mac.
Method 1: Use the Keyboard Shortcut
Simply press Option + Shift + 8 at the same time. This drops the standard degree symbol (°) directly into your document.
There is also a slightly different shortcut if you need a specific variation.
Pressing Option + 0 produces the masculine ordinal indicator (º) which is often used in other languages. For standard temperatures and math equations, stick to the first shortcut.
Method 2: Open the Character Viewer
Not a fan of memorizing keyboard shortcuts? macOS has a built-in menu packed with content that includes every special character you could ever need. This is the Emoji & Symbols viewer.
- To open it, click “Edit” in your top menu bar and select “Emoji & Symbols” from the dropdown. Alternatively, you can press Control + Command + Spacebar to bring up the window instantly.
- Once the viewer is open, type “degree” into the search bar. The viewer will display the degree symbol, allowing you to double-click it to insert it directly into your text.
Method 3: Copy and Paste
You can copy the degree symbol right here: °. Press Command + C to copy it to your clipboard.
When you are ready to place it in your document, press Command + V to paste. This method moves at a snail’s pace compared to the shortcut, but it works in a pinch if your keyboard is acting up.
Try memorizing the Option + Shift + 8 shortcut to save yourself a few clicks. It is a small trick that makes using your Mac just a little bit smoother.
