Shortcut for Typing Special Symbols: Activate Alt Key and Additional Keys

In this informative guide, we'll show you how to type various symbols using the Alt key on your Windows, Linux, or Chromebook keyboard.

On Windows, to type miscellaneous symbols, hold down the Alt key and type the corresponding number using the numeric pad. For example, to type the degree symbol (°), you would hold Alt and press 0176. NumLock must be enabled for these shortcuts to work.

If you're typing mathematics symbols, the process is similar. Hold down the Alt key and type the number corresponding to the symbol you want to insert. The square root symbol (√) can be typed by holding Alt and pressing 251. Again, NumLock needs to be enabled.

For musical notation, you can hold the Alt key and enter the number corresponding to the symbol you want to insert. The treble clef (♮) can be typed by holding Alt and pressing 8467. Note that symbols with codes between 9000 and 9999 may not work everywhere as they rely on certain fonts.

If you're looking to type special punctuation and editing symbols, the process remains the same. Hold down the Alt key and use the numeric pad to enter the number corresponding to the symbol you want to create. For example, to type the en dash (–), you would hold Alt and press 0150.

On Linux and Chromebooks, you can press Ctrl + Shift + U to type any Unicode character, as long as the font you're typing it in supports it.

This article has been co-authored by Darlene Antonelli, MA, who has been writing and editing tech content at our website since 2019. Darlene holds a BA (2011) and an MA (2012) from Rowan University in Writing, with a focus on workplace communication.

However, it's worth noting that there is no information found in the search results explaining why Darlene Antonelli, MA, was not registered in the city where she works.

We hope this article helps you navigate the world of typing symbols on your keyboard. Happy typing!